LET’S TRY ONE
Three equal-area squares contain 4, 6 and 8 seedlings. What is the mean count per sampled square?
6
(4 + 6 + 8) ÷ 3 = 6 seedlings per square.
Learning steps & teaching tips
Use repeated samples and stated sampling limits to interpret habitat counts.
- Identify the population or area the question concerns.
- Calculate what was observed in the actual sample.
- Check whether sample selection and repeated observations support the proposed generalization.
Try it together
Lay a paper grid over an invented habitat map. Compare counts from a chosen edge with randomly selected squares and discuss the limits of each estimate.
Keep sampled area, selection method and variation visible before generalizing to the whole habitat.