GCSE Statistics

Course description

Exam Board: Edexcel

The Edexcel GCSE Statistics course provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the principles and techniques of statistical analysis. Covering key concepts such as data representation, probability, and hypothesis testing, students will develop a solid foundation in statistical reasoning and application. Practical skills are honed through hands-on activities, enabling students to collect, analyse, and interpret data effectively. Emphasis is placed on real-world applications, fostering a deeper understanding of how statistics impacts various fields. By the end of the course, students will have acquired essential statistical knowledge and skills, preparing them for further studies or practical applications in diverse fields.

GCSE Statistics extends the statistical concepts from GCSE Maths, including Averages (mean, median, and mode), Statistical Diagrams (Bar Charts, Pie Charts, Histograms, etc.), and Probability (Theoretical Probability, Tree Diagrams, Venn Diagrams, etc.). This deepens understanding by exploring practical applications in real-life situations and introducing variations not covered in GCSE Maths, such as the Geometric Mean. Additionally, it delves into advanced techniques like calculating Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient for precise correlation values beyond simple identification on a scatter graph.

Assessment

The course is entirely assessed by exams. These will be at the end of the course, where you will take two written papers, both calculator and both one and a half hours long.

Key Skills

You will develop the following skills:

• Data Interpretation: Students develop the skills of interpreting and analysing various types of data, including numerical and graphical representations.

• Real-life Applications: The course focuses on the practical application of statistical skills in real-life scenarios, enabling students to understand how statistics are used in various fields and situations.

• Advanced Statistical Methods: Edexcel GCSE Statistics introduces advanced statistical methods, going beyond the basics covered in GCSE Maths.

• Critical Thinking: Students develop critical thinking skills by analysing data critically, making informed decisions, and drawing conclusions based on statistical evidence. This skill is valuable for problem-solving and decision-making in a wide range of contexts.

Where can it take me?

The skills you learn will really help you in your normal mathematics, as well as letting you see how mathematics is used in the real world. The knowledge acquired, is highly transferable to other subjects, being useful for A Level courses in: Mathematics, Geography, Psychology, Business Studies, Economics, Biology, Sociology and more.

The course contains four key areas:

• Planning and Data Collection
• Processing and Representing
• Reasoning and Interpreting
• Probability

Further information

Please contact: Mr S Wilson - Curriculum Leader Statistics

Useful Websites

www.edexcel.com
www.mymaths.co.uk