Do Credit Cards Make You Gain Weight? What is Correlation, and How to Distinguish It from Causation

This lesson introduces the students to the concepts of correlation and causation, and the difference between the two. The main learning objective is to encourage students to think critically about various possible explanations for a correlation, and to evaluate their plausibility, rather than passively taking presented information on faith. To give students the right tools for such analysis, the lesson covers most common reasons behind a correlation, and different possible types of causation.
Resource ID#: 189347 Type: Lesson Plan
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Direct Link: https://web.mit.edu/blossoms/videos/lessons/do_credit_cards_make_you_gain_weight_what_correlation_and_how_distinguish_it

General Information

Subject(s): Mathematics
Grade Level(s): 9, 10, 11, 12
Intended Audience: Educators educators, Students
Suggested Technology: Computer for Presenter, LCD Projector
Instructional Time: 55 Minute(s)
Keywords: Correlation, Causation, Association, Omitted variables, Reverse causality
Instructional Component Type(s): Lesson Plan,  Video/Audio/Animation,  Student Center Activity
Instructional Design Framework(s): Guided Inquiry (Level 3)
Resource Collection: MIT BLOSSOMS

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