8th Grade · Statistics & Probability
Line of Best Fit
8.SP.A.2
Definition
A straight line drawn through scatter-plot data to model the overall trend, positioned so the points are balanced as closely as possible around it.
Teach it
Where it is taught, with guided notes, practice, homework, an exit ticket and an interactive Teacher Deck.
Examples
- The line follows the data's overall direction, even without touching every point.
- About as many points fall above the line as below it.
Key rule
The line of best fit does not need to touch every point — it captures the overall direction.
Memory hook
The line that best follows the trend.