Correlate the responses to identify the cause. A resource presents how individuals sometimes confuse the issue between correlation and causation. The video provides examples of different variables that are correlated — but one does not cause the other. The presenter then points out that many times there is a third variable that is connected to the other two, which may be the true cause.

Concepts

correlation, data analysis, negative correlation, data, statistics

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Additional Tags

math

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Instructional Ideas

• Have class members research to find other ridiculous correlation versus causation examples
• Develop a list of actual correlation means causation examples to share with the class

Classroom Considerations

• Be aware that a sensitivity issue may exist when discussing the pregnancy example

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Resource includes definitions of correlation and causation for review
• Designed to address Common Core standards

Cons

• None

Common Core

HSS-ID.C.9