1. Methods Wrap-Up - #1
Mean: the measure closest to the everyday meaning of the term “average” Median: the number that divides a series of values in half; i.e. half the values lie above the median, half below Mode: the number which occurs most frequently A researcher is interested in the effect of family size on self-esteem. To begin this study, 10 students are each asked how many brothers and sisters they have. The responses are as follows: 2, 3, 1, 0, 9, 2, 3, 2, 4, 2. A.) Identify the mean, median, and mode of the data given above. 2. A different researcher is studying the impact of murders on a particular neighborhood In downtown Chicago. Over the past 8 months, the number of murders are as follows: January (3), February (2), March (3), April (7), May (4), June (9), July (8), August (3). A.) Explain why the mode would be of little interest to the researcher, while the median would be useful information for studying the violence in the area. B.) Though they are statistically above the median, use your sociological imagination to hypothesize a societal explanation for the peaked numbers in June and July.
Introduction to Sociology: Sociological Research Methods

2. Homework: Observation #1
Before Friday of this week, you need carry out a minute observation in a location of your choosing. You will work to create two documents for submission.
A set of observation notes will be turned in. Take 2-4 minutes to settle in at your observation location, and then start the clock on your minutes. During this time, your note-taking should be constant, and fairly free form. No judgments or analysis need to be made – simply record what you see. Focus on interactions between individuals and groups of individuals. Open the floodgates between your eyes and your hand. Your notes should reflect minutes of thorough observation.
When you complete your observation, use your notes to guide the following question: How do folkways and norms present themselves to an observer in modern society? Your write up should be ¾ to 1 page, and should use your observation notes as support evidence to reinforce your findings.
Introduction to Sociology: Sociological Research Methods