6.

1 Special Means

Mean for Grouped Data

When data are grouped into intervals, use the midpoint to represent the values in each interval.
The formula to approximate the mean for grouped data is:

Example Two
A group of children were asked how many hours a day they spend playing video games. The
table shows the data.

Determine the estimated mean, median number of hours and the modal interval for the data.

# of hrs midpoint = m children = f mf

 Weighted Mean
Certain values in a data set are sometimes of greater relative importance than others. In
these cases, it is useful to calculate a weighted mean. The formula for the weighted mean
is:

Example Three
A math department assigns the following weights for each category in its Advanced
Functions MHF 4U course:

Knowledge: 25% Thinking: 10%

Application: 15% ISP: 10%
Communication 10% Final Exam: 30%
:

Ruby’s marks in the course so far are 87, 90, 76, 78 and 84 in each of the first five categories.
She still needs to write the final exam.
a) Determine the weighted mean for Ruby before writing her final exam.

b) Is it possible for Ruby to receive a final mark of 90% in the course? Justify your
answer.