Section 1 - Instruction

Remember, just because two things move together (correlation) doesn't mean one causes the other (causation). Often, a third, hidden variable—a confounding factor—is the real cause.

Engagement Message

Ready to spot some tricky correlations?

Section 2 - Practice

Type

Multiple Choice

Practice Question

Data shows that cities with more libraries have higher crime rates. What is the most likely explanation for this correlation?

A. Libraries cause crime. B. Crime causes more libraries to be built. C. A confounding factor, like larger population, leads to both. D. It is a pure coincidence with no logical connection.

Suggested Answers

  • A
  • B
  • C - Correct
  • D
Section 3 - Practice

Type

Sort Into Boxes

Practice Question

Sort these pairs based on the likely type of correlation.

Labels

  • First Box Label: Positive Correlation
  • Second Box Label: Negative Correlation

First Box Items

  • Study time & grades
  • Rainfall & umbrella sales

Second Box Items

  • Temperature & heating bills
  • Exercise & weight
  • Price & demand
  • Speed & travel time
Section 4 - Practice

Type

Fill In The Blanks

Markdown With Blanks

The observation that shark attacks and ice cream sales rise at the same time is a classic example of a correlation caused by a [[blank:confounding]] factor, which in this case is [[blank:hot weather]].

Suggested Answers

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