Variation and distribution readiness
Read small visual data sets for spread, clusters, outliers, and typical value foundation before formal statistics.
Variation ladder
1Foundation recognitionNotice the relevant quantity, shape, relation, or constraint before calculating.Attention to the relevant objects, relation, or constraint without solving it.
2Guided strategyUse a visible scaffold, model, or narrowing move to choose a valid next step.One scaffolded move, then completion of the decision.
3Core taskSolve the target skill independently.Progressive hints that preserve independent evidence before reveal.
4Transfer formApply the same idea when numbers, wording, or representation changes.The invariant idea and what changed in the representation.
5Challenge extensionCombine the skill with a second idea, hidden constraint, or explanation requirement.Smaller case, counterexample, or explanation before reveal.
6Advanced enrichmentReason about the general method or a non-routine variant.Method hint, not the answer; no copied external source text.
Common slips
Compares displays using only the largest value and ignores spread or clusters.
Treats an unusual value as ordinary when it changes the claim.
Hints and checks
Decision restated without adding a new method.
Common slip nudge: Compares displays using only the largest value and ignores spread or clusters.
One useful scaffold after help is requested.