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Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisEasyChoosing a representative sample

Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question

A school wants to estimate what fraction of its 900 students walk to school. Which sample would give the most reliable estimate?

  1. A. 90 students chosen at random from the whole schoolCorrect
  2. B. The 90 students who arrive earliest
  3. C. The 90 students in the football club
  4. D. The 90 students who live nearest the school

Answer: A. 90 students chosen at random from the whole school

A random sample from the whole population is representative.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The 90 students who arrive earliest
Early arrivers may travel differently from the rest.
C. The 90 students in the football club
One club is not the whole school.
D. The 90 students who live nearest the school
Those living nearest are more likely to walk.

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