Stats-Minded Scrabble® Tournament

Learning Objectives

Students will:

• Apply statistical measurements of data, such as mean, median, mode, and standard deviation, to develop strategies for a board game.
• Calculate and analyze statistical measurements of data.

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Materials

For each set of 4 students:

• Equipment for a game of Scrabble® or similar game, in which players take turns and are awarded points on each turn; the whole group may play the same game or different games.
• Index card

For each student:

• Pen and paper (for keeping score and recording calculations)
• PDF file of Statistics Definitions (See attached file)
• Calculator

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PDF file of Statistics Definitions

Preparation

• Read through and familiarize yourself with the entire activity, as well as the rules for Scrabble® or other board games that you selected.
• Prepare index cards that show new statistical goals for the games, as shown here. Each game board should receive one goal, and goals may be reused as necessary.
  
  Mean score closest to 12
  Median score closest to 14
  Mode score closest to 16
  Greatest standard deviation
  Least standard deviation
• Print copies of the PDF file that shows basic definitions of statistical measurements. Or have students refer to the definitions online. See the link below.

Resources:

How to Find the Mean, Median, Mode, Range, and Standard Deviation

Activity Steps

1. Ask students if they have ever played the word game that you have selected, such as Scrabble®. Review the basic rules of the games, as necessary.
2. Tell students that generally the winner of a word game is the player who earns the highest score but that in this version the winner will be determined by another measurement.
3. Review the goals for each board game that you have prepared. Distribute copies of the definitions of statistical measurements, or refer students to definitions online as needed.
4. Assign groups of 3 or 4 students to each board game, or allow students to choose their board game. Consider partnering students who have experience with statistics with those who could use assistance.
5. Circulate among the groups as they play the board games. Make sure each student tracks their score for each turn as well as the total score.
6. Call time at least 10 minutes before dismissal. Have each group of 4 students analyze their scores and determine the winner of their game.
7. Reconvene the whole group, and lead a discussion about the results of the activity. Ask:
   • How did the new statistical goal change your strategy for the game?
   • Do you think your strategy was effective? Why or why not?
   • Which statistical goal would you propose for the game? Why do you think that goal would make for a challenging or fun game?

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Variations

1. Students may perform additional rounds of the games as time allows, or propose and play under a new statistical rule.

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