Lesson Plan

How Long Are the Words in the Gettysburg Address?

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

It's 268 words, but one only needs to consider 10 of them at a time. A data collection and analysis activity has learners investigate the lengths of words in the Gettysburg Address. They first self-select a sample of 10 words and randomly select another sample of 10 words using a random number generator, calculate the mean length for each sample, and then analyze the data to conclude that self-selection involves a bias toward longer words. They also consider how sample size affects the variability of the mean lengths of words.

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CCSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Have the class use a speech or article of their choice to make the lesson more relevant
Classroom Considerations
  • Pupils must be familiar with how to create dot plots and how to calculate mean and range
  • Access to a random number generator is necessary
Pros
  • Includes a student guide (worksheet)
  • Provides sample data and dot plots for instructors
Cons
  • None
Common Core