1. Take a moment and read the attached article about the importance of statistics. After reading the article, place your thoughts on why it's important that we study statistics and the difference statistics can make, both in a positive way and in a negative way, in our lives. https://baker.instructure.com/courses/48121/files/4791764?wrap=1 2. It is said that there are lies, damned lies, and then there are statistics. Statistics can be used for a myriad of good purposes but they are notorious for being misused and abused for all manner of purposes. Look around and see if you can find some ways that you believe statistics are being used either inappropriately or wrongly. Provide the information on where you got the information and your comments. 3. In every election we're surrounded by polls. On television the commercials tell us how many prefer this product or that. Of what use are these polls? Consider political, economic, business, commercials, and any other that may be used. Should they be used when making important governmental or business decisions? To what extent should they be or not be used? 4. One of the issues and arguments that consistently arises is that of the minimum wage. Time and again, at certain points during the political season, this issue is debated with both sides giving statistic after statistic to support their arguments. Here is a chance to look at a real-world, practical issue through the lens of statistics Look at the issue of the minimum wage objectively and cite some of the statistics that are being used. Explain the statistic and whether or not it is used properly or misused. Take a particular look at the statistics issued by the mayor of Seattle and the controversy that surrounded those statistics. 5. Over your lives, you have encountered statistics on many forms and in many ways. You've heard things here and there about statistics. Statistics are ubiquitous in print, radio, television, and internet media. We are all surrounded by statistics, good and bad. Write a paragraph or two that describes your impression of statistics, whether good or bad or indifferent. Be sure to justify your comments with examples, when necessary. You will re-visit this topic later in the course