Collecting and Numerically Analyzing M&M’s Data

In this investigation, students collect, organize, and analyze color data from individual sized bags of plain M&M’s (1.69 oz.). This activity is designed to be an introduction to the calculation capabilities of a spreadsheet.

Mathematical Topics: Students will collect and organize data. They will analyze the data with frequency counts, percents, and measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode).

Mathematical Thinking: In this activity, students need to analyze data and statistical calculations and make inferences and conjectures based on those calculations.

Technology: Students will learn how to enter data in cells, format the text and background colors, perform basic calculations using formulas and functions, such as COUNT AVERAGE, MEDIAN, and SUM, and use the Fill option to apply formulas and functions in adjacent cells.

The following spreadsheet displays sample individual and class data and calculations of the measures of central tendency.