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Math / Patterns and reasoning / Grade 5 / mo591

An Unusual Value Is a Clue

Use a stated review rule without treating a flag as proof of a mistake.

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An anomaly is something that stands out relative to a comparison rule. A flag means inspect the evidence; it does not prove fraud, failure or a wrong measurement. Apply endpoints carefully and distinguish a number's value from the number of times it appears.

Worked example

A practice sensor flags readings outside 10 through 20, including both endpoints in the allowed range. 10 and 20 are allowed. 9 and 21 are flagged. A flag tells us to investigate the reading, not secretly replace it.

Readings 12, 15, 20, 21, 9 and 15 are shown. 21 and 9 are flagged for review; endpoints 10 and 20 belong to the allowed range.
A flag asks for review. It does not prove the reading is wrong.

Invented Sensor Log

The allowed range is 10 through 20, inclusive. Six readings are 12, 15, 20, 21, 9, 15. The review team checks the instrument, units and recording before deciding whether a flagged value reflects a real change or a measurement problem. These are invented data, not health or safety readings.

Question 1 How many readings are flagged by the stated range rule?
Question 2 What is the greatest flagged value?
Question 3 Is 20 flagged by the stated rule?
Question 4 What should happen before deciding that 21 is a recording mistake?
Question 5 How many of the six readings equal 15?