Correlation vs. Causation

While investigating bivariate data and analyzing regression models by using the correlation coefficient to determine the function's fit to the data, the Common Core State Standards require Algebra 1 students to distinguish between correlation and causation. I posted the following infographic on our class website for student review.

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Students generally struggle with correlation not implying causation. The following examples help to clarify that the presence of both correlation and causation can occur, but the connection cannot be assumed.

Students use the RallyRobin stucture for Kagan cooperative learning to review correlation and causation before we summarize their learning in a whole class discussion.

This discussion activity highlights Common Core State Standard HSS-ID.C.9 included in 7th and 8th Accelerated Algebra 1.