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Definition--Measures of Central Tendency--Variance

Variance

Variance

Topic

Statistics

Definition

Variance is a measure of the dispersion of a set of values, calculated as the average of the squared deviations from the mean.

Description

Variance quantifies the degree of spread in a data set, providing insight into the variability of data points around the mean. It is a fundamental concept in statistics, used in fields such as finance, research, and engineering to assess risk and variability. A high variance indicates greater dispersion, while a low variance suggests that data points are closer to the mean.

In educational settings, variance is introduced in lessons on data analysis and variability. Students learn to calculate variance and understand its significance in measuring data dispersion. Teachers use variance to explain concepts of variability and its implications for statistical analysis, emphasizing its role in data-driven decision-making.

For a complete collection of terms related to Measures of Central Tendency click on this link: Measures of Central Tendency Collection.

Common Core Standards CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.CP.B.6, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.CP.B.7, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.CP.B.8, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.CP.B.9, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.MD.A.2, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.MD.B.5, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.MD.B.5.B, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.MD.B.6, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSS.MD.B.7
Grade Range 6 - 10
Curriculum Nodes Algebra
    • Probability and Data Analysis
        • Data Analysis
Copyright Year 2021
Keywords data analysis, measures of central tendency, definitions, glossary term, statistics