8th Grade · Statistics & Probability
Outlier
8.SP.A.1
Definition
A data point that differs markedly from the overall pattern of a data set. It lies far from the other points and can strongly affect summaries and trend lines.
Teach it
Where it is taught, with guided notes, practice, homework, an exit ticket and an interactive Teacher Deck.
Examples
- Most points follow the trend, but one point stands apart.
- An outlier can come from a special case or a measurement error.
Key rule
One unusual point can change your conclusions — always look for outliers.
Memory hook
A point that doesn't fit the pattern.