Algebra 1 · Exponential Functions & Data
Correlation vs Causation
Algebra 1 · Exponential Functions & Data
Definition
Correlation means two variables are related; causation means one causes the other, and correlation alone does not prove causation.
Teach it
Where it is taught, with guided notes, practice, homework, an exit ticket and an interactive Teacher Deck.
Examples
- Ice cream sales and drownings both rise in summer but neither causes the other.
- A related pattern does not prove a cause.
Key rule
A correlation does not prove one thing causes another.
Memory hook
Related is not the same as responsible.