| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Mathematics |
| Lesson Topic: Sampling and estimation: random and non-random samples, distribution of sample mean, confidence intervals |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe differences between random and non‑random sampling methods and their impact on bias.
- Explain the Central Limit Theorem and how it determines the distribution of the sample mean.
- Calculate and construct confidence intervals for a population mean (known and unknown σ) and for a proportion.
- Interpret confidence intervals in context and assess conditions for valid inference.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector and screen
- Whiteboard and markers
- Printed worksheet with sample data sets
- Scientific calculators or statistical software
- Handout of confidence‑interval formulae
- Sample survey results (e.g., heights, proportions)
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Introduction:
Imagine trying to estimate the average height of all students in a city without measuring everyone. Students already know how to compute means, variances, and use z‑scores. By the end of the lesson they will be able to select an appropriate sample, compute a confidence interval, and explain what it means.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5'): Quick quiz on bias and types of sampling.
- Mini‑lecture (10'): Review random vs non‑random samples and introduce the Central Limit Theorem.
- Guided example (15'): Demonstrate calculation of a sample mean, standard error, and a confidence interval for a known σ using the projector.
- Paired activity (15'): Students compute confidence intervals for unknown σ (t‑distribution) and for a proportion using worksheet data.
- Whole‑class discussion (10'): Interpret the intervals, check conditions, and compare results.
- Exit ticket (5'): Write one sentence summarizing what a 95% confidence interval tells us.
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Conclusion:
We recap the key steps for constructing and interpreting confidence intervals and emphasise the importance of random sampling and meeting assumptions. Students hand in their exit tickets, which serve as a retrieval check. For homework, they will complete textbook exercises on confidence intervals and read the next section on hypothesis testing.
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