1 Module 2 | Descriptive Analysis

Lesson 2: MEASURES OF VARIABILITY

SPECIFIC LEARNING OUTCOMES

In this lesson, you are expected to:
 investigate and illustrate the measures of variability;
 demonstrate understanding of the key concepts of the different measures of variability of a data set;
 demonstrate information using microsoft excel;
 Gather data from social friends about their attitude and perception towards online learning;
 compute and apply accurately the descriptive measures in statistics to data analysis and
interpretation in solving problems related to research, business, education, technology, science,
economics and others; and
 apply 1-4-3 chart to understand and reflect your learning.

PRE-ASSESSMENT
Instruction: Read, analyse and answer each of the following questions. Encircle the letter of your
correct answer.
1. The most reliable measure of variability is _______________ .
a. range b. average deviation c. variance d. standard deviation
2. If the range of a set of scores is 14 and the lowest score is 7, what is the highest score?
a. 21 b. 14 c. 24 d. 7
3. Electra Company measures each cable wire as it comes off the product line. The lengths in centimeters of
the first batch of ten cable wires were: 10, 15, 14, 11, 13, 10, 10, 11, 12 and 13. Find the standard deviation
of these lengths.
a. 1.7 b. 1.8 c. 11.9 d. 10.9
4. It is refer to the spread of the values about the mean.
a. Measures of Central Tendency c. Measures of Position
b. Measures of Variability d. Measures of Probability
5. It is the average squared difference of scores from the mean score of a distribution.
a. Range b. mean absolute deviation c. variance d. standard deviation
6. It is average amount that each score deviates from the mean.
a. Range b. mean absolute deviation c. variance d. standard deviation
7. Which of the following is NOT belong to the measures of variability?
a. Range b. Quartile c. Variance d. Average
Deviation

A testing lab wishes to test two experimental brands of outdoor paint to see how long each will last before
fading. The testing lab makes 6 gallons of each paint to test.
Brand A 35 45 30 35 40 25
Brand B 10 60 50 30 40 20
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8. Find the variance and standard deviation for the data set for brand A paint.
a. V=41.67 ; SD=6.45
b. V=50 ; SD=7.07
c. V=1750 ; SD=4.83
d. V=291.7 ; SD=17.1
9.Find the variance and standard deviation for the data set for brand B paint.
a. V=17.50 ; SD=4.83
b. V=81.67 ; SD=9.58
c. V=65.01 ; SD=8.71
d. V=291.67 ; SD=17.08
10. It gives a quick approximation of the variability of the data, but is not very sophisticated.
a. Range
b. Mean Absolute Deviation
c. Variance
d. Standard Deviation

LESSON MAP

Measures of
Variability

Mean Standard
Range Variance
Deviation
Figure 1. Flow of the measures of variability
Deviation

CORE CONTENTS

ENGAGE: LETS INVESTIGATE

Activity 1: Compare Me!
3 Module 2 | Descriptive Analysis

Instruction: Compare the number of hours in studying of the two (2) students and complete the table below
based on what is asked. Two (2) students in a Quantitative Class recorded their number of hours in studying
five (5) days before the examination.

I. Procedures
Task 1: Complete the table below separately for Student A and Student B.
Student A
Day No. of Hours Difference between each no. Squared difference between
of hours per day and the each No. of hours per day and
mean of no. of hours the Mean no. of hours
1 5
2 3
3 5
4 4
5 3
Mean No. of Sum of the squared difference
Hours = between each No. of hours
______ per day and the Mean of no.
of hours = _______
Student B
Day No. of Hours Difference between each no. Squared difference between
of hours per day and the each No. of hours per day and
mean of no. of hours the Mean no. of hours
1 8
2 2
3 6
4 3
5 1
Mean No. of Sum of the squared difference
Hours = between each No. of hours
______ per day and the Mean of no.
of hours = _______

Task 2: Compute the following:

For Student A: For Student B:
Highest no. of hours-lowest no. of hours= Highest no. of hours-lowest no. of hours=
_____________ ________________
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Sum of the squared difference between each no. of Sum of the squared difference between each no. of
hours per day and the mean no. of hours divided by hours per day and the mean no. of hours divided by
no. of days = _________________ no. of days = _______________
Square root of the sum of the squared difference Square root of the sum of the squared difference
between each no. of hours per day and the mean between each no. of hours per day and the mean
no. of hours divided by the no. of days= __________ no. of hours divided by the no. of days=
____________
Guide Questions:
1. What have you noticed about the following:
A. mean number of hours in studying of student A and student B?
B. Square root of the sum of the squared difference between each no. of hours per day and the mean
number of hours divided by the no. of days of student A and student B?
2. Based on your observations, who do you think is more consistent in studying? Why?

EXPLORE: KNOW MORE ABOUT VARIABILITY

Activity 2: Read Me!
INSTRUCTIONS: Read each concept below and understand the thought about measures of variability.
Measures of variability determine the range of the distribution, relative to the measures of central
tendency. Where the measures of central tendency are specific data points, measures of variability are
lengths between various points within the distribution. The spread of these data points tells you about
variability. These are important quantities used by statisticians in evaluation. Smaller dispersion of scores
arising from the comparison often indicates more consistency and more reliability. Variation or variability is
measured in terms of range, mean deviation, variance and standard deviation.
Variability refers to how "spread out" a group of scores is. To see what we mean by spread out,
consider graphs in Figure 1. These graphs represent the scores on two quizzes. The mean score for each
quiz is 7.0. Despite the equality of means, you can see that the distributions are quite different. Specifically,
the scores on Quiz 1 are more densely packed and those on Quiz 2 are more spread out. The differences
among students were much greater on Quiz 2 than on Quiz 1.

Figure 2. Quiz 1 of the students Figure 3. Quiz 2 of the students

RANGE
 Simply the difference between the largest and smallest values in a set of data
 Is considered primitive as it considers only the extreme values which may not be useful indicators of
the bulk of the population.
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 It is commonly used as a preliminary indicator of variation. However, because it takes into account
only the scores that lie at the two extremes, the highest and the lowest scores, it is of limited use.
 It is not informative, because it is based only on the most extreme scores.
 Thus, it is not a very useful measure of spread or variation.
 Range = highest score – lowest score
Example: Heights (in inches) of 5 starting players from two basketball teams:
Team A: 72 , 73, 76, 76, 78
Team B: 67, 72, 76, 76, 84
Range of team A: 78-72=6 . Hence, the range of the heights of Team A is 6.
Range of team B: 84-67=17. Hence, the range of the heights of Team B is 17.
Therefore, it indicates that the height of the Team A are closer while the height of the Team B are relatively
scattered.

MEAN ABSOLUTE DEVIATION

 the Average deviation is the “average” amount each score deviates from the mean.
 applications are very limited, since absolute values have little use in most statistical procedures.
 it is easier for new researchers to understand than standard deviation.
 it is usually expressed as the mean of the absolute values of the deviations from the mean.

MAD =
∑ |x − x́|
N
where M.A.D. is the Mean average deviation;
x is the individual score;
x́ is the mean;
N is the number of scores; and
|x- x́ | is the absolute value of the deviation from the mean.

Example:
Find the MAD of the ages of the scientists: 34, 35, 45,56, 32, 25 and 40.

Step 1. Calculate the mean age( x́ ) =

∑ x = 267 = 38.14
N 7
Step 2. Subtract the mean from all of the raw scores(x- x́ ) and find the absolute value( |x- x́ | ).
x x- x́ |x- x́ |
34 34 - 38.14 = -4.14 4.14
35 35 - 38.14 = -3.14 3.14
45 45 - 38.14 = 6.86 6.86
56 56 - 38.14 = 17.86 17.86
32 32 - 38.14 = -6.14 6.14
25 25 - 38.14 = -13.14 13.14
40 40 - 38.14 = 1.86 1.86
∑ ¿ x − x́∨¿ ¿=
53.14
Step 3. Sum up all the absolute deviation of the scores( ∑ ¿ x − x́∨¿ ¿ ).
Step 4. Solve for the average deviation by dividing the absolute deviation to the total number of scores.
6 Module 2 | Descriptive Analysis

53.14
MAD = = 7.59
7
Therefore, the mean absolute deviation is 7.59.

VARIANCE AND STANDARD DEVIATION

The variance and standard deviation are the most common and useful measures of variability. These two
measures provide information about how the data vary about the mean.
When the data are clustered about the mean, the When the data are widely scattered about the mean,
variance and standard deviation will be somewhat the variance and standard deviation will be somewhat
small. large.

Variance (σ 2 or s2) is another measure of variation which can be used instead of the range.
 it considers the deviation of each observation from the mean.
 it is average squared differences of scores from the mean score of a distribution.

Standard deviation (σ or s) is the square root of the variance.

 it is popular and it is the most reliable measure of variability expressed in the same units as the raw
data, unlike the variance, which is expressed in squared units.
 The standard deviation is the most commonly used and the most important measure of variability.
 defined as a number representing how far from the average each score is.

Formula Variance Standard deviation

Sample (s) ∑ ( x − x́) 2
∑ (x − x́)2
Population (σ)
s2 =
n −1
∑ ( x − μ)2
s=
√∑ n− 1
( x − μ)2

2 2
σ 2=
N
σ=
√ N
Where: s = sample variance ; σ = population variance , n =number of observations or data values
x́ = sample mean ; μ = population mean
Example.
Big Blossom Greenhouse was commissioned to develop an extra large rose for the Rose Bowl Parade. A
random sample of blossoms from Hybrid A and B bushes yielded the following diameters (in inches) for
mature peak blooms.
Hybrid A 2 3 3 8 10 10
Hybrid B 5 5 5 6 7 8
Find the sample variance and standard deviation.
 7 Module 2 | Descriptive Analysis

NOTE: Do not let the formula intimidate you. We will build a table to help you with the computations.

Step 1. Compute the mean score.

Hybrid A Hybrid B

x́ =
∑x =
36
= 6 inches x́ =
∑x =
36
= 6 inches
n 6 n 6

Step 2. Complete the table below.

Hybrid A Hybrid B

x x- x́ (x- x́ )2
52 2 - 6-1= -4 1
16
5 3 - 6-1= -3
3 Step 3. Compute 1
9
the variance and standard deviation.
53 -1
3 - 6 = -3 1
9
68 8 - 60 = 2 Hybrid A 0
4 Hybrid B
7
10 Variance: 10 - 16 = 4 1
16 Variance:
8
10 − x́)- 226 = 4 70 4
s2 =
∑ (x 10 =
16
= 14 inches 2 s2
= ∑ (x − x́)2 = 8
= 1.6 inches
n −1 6 −1 (x − x́) = 870
∑ n −1 6 −1
Now obtain the sample standard deviation by taking Now obtain the sample standard deviation by taking
the square root of the variance. the square root of the variance.
Standard deviation: Standard deviation:

∑ (x − x́)2 = √ 14 ∑ (x − x́)2 = √ 1.6

s=
√ n− 1
≈ 3.74 inches s=
√ n− 1
≈ 1.26 inches

Therefore, in both cases the means are the same: 6 inches. But the first hybrid has a larger standard
deviation. This means that the blossoms of Hybrid A are less consistent than those of Hybrid B. If you want a
rosebush that occasionally has 10-inches blooms and 2-inches blooms, use the first hybrid. But if you want a
bush that consistently produces roses close to 6 inches across, use Hybrid B. The smaller standard deviation
the better it is.

TECH NOTES: You may click the link below for your own perusal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgvjMYLR_Ns
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ec09fdZq0xw

Computer Applications in computing measures of variability using excel will be presented. It shows
how to start with an excel program to facilitate computations.

EXPLAIN: ELABORATE THE CONCEPT

Activity 3: Let me Explain!
INSTRUCTIONS: From the concept of variability, explain the given questions comprehensively.
1. In measures of variability, what is the best measure to interpret the given set of data?Why?
2. What is the relationship between the variance and the standard deviation for a sample data set?
3. When computing the standard deviation, does it matter whether the data are sample data or data
comprising the entire population? Explain.

EXTEND: GATHERING DATA

8 Module 2 | Descriptive Analysis

Activity 4: Online Learning Survey

INSTRUCTIONS: Take a survey about the attitude and perception of the students towards online learning.
This study aims to assess and determine the attitude and perception of college students toward online
learning especially during the times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using social media sites, ask your 8 - 10
friends to answer the online learning survey form using google forms to share their opinions. Afterwards,
encode the data in Microsoft excel and compute for mean and standard deviation, then interpret the results.

ATTITUDE AND PERCEPTION OF THE COLLEGE STUDENTS TOWARDS ONLINE LEARNING

Part I. Please fill up the given information and put your answer in the space provided.
Gender: ______________
Age: ______________
Civil Status: ____________
Part II. Please indicate your answer by ticking (/) the appropriate box provided on your attitude and
perception towards online learning.
Scale Verbal Interpretation
4 Strongly Agree
3 Agree
2 Disagree
1 Strongly Disagree
I. Student’s Attitude Towards Online Learning
1 2 3 4
1. The online learning content should be sufficient to satisfy
educational requirements.
2. Downloadable online learning content is better than live
content.
An interactive electronic content with discussions can be
achieved through online learning.
3.Online learning is more convenient and flexible than
conventional learning.
4. The quality of internet services in the Philippines can support
online learning.
5. Interaction between students and lecturers is possible through
online learning.

II. Student’s Perception Towards Online Learning

1 2 3 4
1. Technologies are available to enable one to take tests and submit
assignments electronically.
2. Live lectures can be done over the internet as it is in the
classroom.
3. Studying through online learning can increase my learning
effectively as there is easy access to learning materials.
4. Learning through online means can improve my course
performance as I will not need to travel to campus but study at
the comfort of my home.
5. Using an online learning system can enable me to accomplish
tasks more quickly since I will be able to move at my own pace.

EVALUATE: ASSESS MY LEARNING

9 Module 2 | Descriptive Analysis

Activity 6: Understand and Reflect

INSTRUCTIONS: Read and analyze the given problem. Solve and interpret the results. Then, complete the
1-4-3 chart to reflect on what you have understand about the topic.

1. The following scores are the scores of two groups of students who took the make up test in Science. Solve
and show your solution.
Group X Group Y
40 66
72 75
58 40
65 42
48 55
35 72
60 36
a. Find the mean and range of the scores of the two groups of students, and interpret the results.
b. Solve the average deviation of Group X and Group Y.
c. Compare the variance and standard deviation of the scores of the two groups, and interpret the results.
d. Which group performed better in the test?
e. Which group has a more uniform net of scores?
f. Which group show more variability in scores?

2. In this activity, you will be asked to complete the 1 - 4 -3 chart. Write down what is being asked regarding
the different measures of variability.
1 - 4 - 3 list
One thing I really love about this topic:
1.
Four important reasons why I love this topic:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Three things I still need to understand about this topic:
1.
2.
3.

TOPIC SUMMARY
In this lesson, you have learned that …
 There are four types of measures of variability included in this section, namely: range, average
deviation, variance and standard deviation.
 Range the simplest form of measuring the variation of a distributions.
 Average deviation is the average amount each score deviates from the mean.
 Variance is the sum of squares of the distributions from the mean.
 Standard deviation is the positive square root of the variance. The most widely used indicator of
variability.
10 Module 2 | Descriptive Analysis

POST-ASSESSMENT
Instruction: Read, analyse and answer each of the following questions. Encircle the letter of your
correct answer.
1. The most reliable measure of variability is _______________ .
a. range b. average deviation c. variance d. standard deviation
2. If the range of a set of scores is 14 and the lowest score is 7, what is the highest score?
a. 21 b. 14 c. 24 d. 7
3. Electra Company measures each cable wire as it comes off the product line. The lengths in centimeters of
the first batch of ten cable wires were: 10, 15, 14, 11, 13, 10, 10, 11, 12 and 13. Find the standard deviation
of these lengths.
a. 1.7 b. 1.8 c. 11.9 d. 10.9
4. It is refer to the spread of the values about the mean.
a. Measures of Central Tendency c. Measures of Position
b. Measures of Variability d. Measures of Probability
5. It is the average squared difference of scores from the mean score of a distribution.
b. Range b. mean absolute deviation c. variance d. standard deviation
6. It is average amount that each score deviates from the mean.
b. Range b. mean absolute deviation c. variance d. standard deviation
7. Which of the following is NOT belong to the measures of variability?
a. Range b. Quartile c. Variance d. Average
Deviation

A testing lab wishes to test two experimental brands of outdoor paint to see how long each will last before
fading. The testing lab makes 6 gallons of each paint to test.
Brand A 35 45 30 35 40 25
Brand B 10 60 50 30 40 20

8. Find the variance and standard deviation for the data set for brand A paint.
a. V=41.67 ; SD=6.45
b. V=50 ; SD=7.07
c. V=1750 ; SD=4.83
d. V=291.7 ; SD=17.1
9.Find the variance and standard deviation for the data set for brand B paint.
a. V=17.50 ; SD=4.83
b. V=81.67 ; SD=9.58
c. V=65.01 ; SD=8.71
d. V=291.67 ; SD=17.08
10. It gives a quick approximation of the variability of the data, but is not very sophisticated.
a. Range
b. Mean Absolute Deviation
c. Variance
11 Module 2 | Descriptive Analysis

d. Standard Deviation

 REFERENCES

Altares, P.; Copo, A.;et al (2012). Elementary Statistics with Computer Applications. Rex Book Store.
Angeles, F.; Evangelista, Y.;et al (2005). Simplified Approach to Statistics. Mutya Publishing House, Inc.
Johnson, R.; Kuby, P. (2013). Statistics Second Edition. Cengage Learning.
Parreno, E.; Jimenez, R. (2006). Basic Statistics a Worktext. C & E Publishing Inc..
https://onlinestatbook.com/2/summarizing_distributions/variability.html