Embedding statistical assessment within cross-curricular materials.

Many subjects in the school curriculum engage with contexts where multiple factors interact. Historically however, data have rarely been used at school level in such contexts because of the difficulties inherent in understanding multiple variable relationships. Stronger links across traditional subjects has proved an elusive aspiration for curriculum developers. We are currently engaged in a pilot project with the Northern Ireland Curriculum Authority (CCEA) to use some innovative interfaces with multivariate summary data as a focus for multiple perspectives on various contexts. Innovations in curriculum design offer opportunities for innovation in assessment. Often statistics assessment focuses primarily on accurate performance of routine calculations or graphical construction. Here the use of data is primarily to enhance understanding. This paper will explore mechanisms for embedding assessment of key statistical concepts within cross-curricular activities.