Teaching correlational reasoning to eleven-to-thirteen year olds

Abstract

The rationale behind the importance of teaching young secondary school students how to look for correlation patterns in data is explored. Two lessons are described which show how 11–13 year old pupils can experience what is meant by correlation and also learn to identify zero, positive, or negative correlation patterns between variables. The two lessons are part of a research project which is briefly described, the Cognitive Acceleration through Science Education project. Some indication of the possible success of the project is given.