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AP® Statistics · Unit 1 · Topic 1.11

Random Sampling: Topic Checklist (Statistics 1.11)

Specific “I can…” statements for random sampling methods, each linked to the guide section and practice question that shows whether you can do it.

Work through the list without notes. If you cannot do a statement, follow its link, then come back. Guide = study guide; Practice = practice questions.

Understanding

  • I can explain why a sample chosen by chance lets me generalise to the population, and why a haphazard choice is not random. (Guide: “Why choose a sample at random?”)
  • I can explain the difference between sampling with replacement and sampling without replacement. (Guide: “Sampling without replacement and with replacement”; Practice Q4)
  • I can state what makes a sample a simple random sample: every possible sample of size n is equally likely. (Guide: “Simple random sample (SRS)”; Practice Q2)
  • I can explain how strata differ from clusters, both in how the groups are formed and in who is sampled. (Guide: “Strata versus clusters”; Practice Q1)

Skills

  • I can identify a simple random, stratified, cluster or systematic random sample from a description of a study. (Guide: Worked example 2; Practice Q1, Q2)
  • I can describe how to select an SRS with a random number generator or numbered slips, including labels, repeats and a stopping rule. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice Q5)
  • I can use a line of random digits to choose an SRS, skipping numbers that are not labels and repeats. (Guide: Worked example 1; Practice Q5)
  • I can describe how to select a stratified sample, including a sample size in proportion to each stratum. (Guide: Worked example 2; Practice Q7)
  • I can describe how to select a cluster sample and a systematic sample, including the interval k and the random start. (Guide: “Systematic random sample”; Practice Q6, Q7)

Reasoning

  • I can choose a useful characteristic for strata and explain why it helps. (Guide: “Stratified random sample”; Practice Q3)
  • I can explain why a systematic sample can fail when the list has a repeating pattern. (Practice Q6)
  • I can justify which sampling method suits a given question and population, using the context. (Guide: “Choosing a method”; Practice Q7)

All ticked? Move on to Topic 1.12, Potential Problems with Sampling, in the Topic 1.12 study guide, or return to the course roadmap.

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