Problem 66 - Prealgebra

Question

ANALYZE TABLES The table shows the average game attendance for three football teams in consecutive years. What was the total change in attendance from Year 1 to Year 2 for the Bobcats? $$\begin{array}{|l|c|c|}\hline \text { Bobcats } & 6234 & 5890 \\\\\hline \text { Cheetahs } & 7008 & 7162 \\\\\hline \text { Wildcats } & 6873 & 6516 \\\\\hline\end{array}$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The total change in attendance for the Bobcats was 344.

Step 1: Identify the Data for Bobcats

Look at the table provided and identify the attendance numbers for the Bobcats. According to the table, Bobcats had an average game attendance of 6234 in Year 1 and 5890 in Year 2.

Step 2: Calculate the Difference in Attendance

To find the total change in attendance from Year 1 to Year 2 for the Bobcats, subtract the Year 2 attendance from the Year 1 attendance. That is, calculate the following: \( 6234 - 5890 \).

Step 3: Perform the Subtraction

Subtract 5890 from 6234 to get the difference. This calculation gives \( 6234 - 5890 = 344 \). The total change in attendance is 344.

Key Concepts

Understanding Table Interpretation

Interpreting tables is a critical part of data analysis. When looking at tables like the one provided in our exercise, we need to focus on key elements: headers, rows, and columns. These elements guide us in identifying the data points we need. For instance, in the table showing average game attendance for three football teams, rows are labeled with team names, and columns show attendance figures for different years.

To correctly interpret any table:

• Start by reading the headers to understand what information is being compared or tracked.
• Move row by row to connect the headers with their appropriate data, ensuring clarity in what each number represents.
• Pay attention to the units of measurement or context notes, which might not always be explicitly stated.

Practicing these steps enhances your ability to extract correct and useful information from tables for further analysis.

Importance of Mathematical Calculations

Mathematical calculations are the backbone of finding insights from data. In our exercise, we calculate the change in attendance for a specific team between two years. Besides simple subtraction, such calculations often involve more complex operations depending on the context.

Basic steps to perform accurate calculations:

• Clearly identify the numbers involved in the calculation.
• Choose the appropriate mathematical operation—addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.
• Use parentheses to clearly indicate the order of operations if needed for complex calculations.
• Double-check your results to ensure accuracy, especially in high-stakes analysis.

For example, in finding the attendance change, the correct calculation was the subtraction of Year 2 from Year 1: \(6234 - 5890\), resulting in a total change of 344. Mastery of these steps allows for precise data analysis and reliable results.

Exploring Attendance Statistics

Attendance statistics in sports contexts offer insights into trends and fan engagement. By looking at attendance figures over consecutive years, such as those in our exercise, we can identify increases or decreases that may indicate broader patterns.

Several factors can influence attendance statistics in any sports event:

• Team Performance: Better performance often attracts more attendees.
• External Factors: Weather conditions, economic factors, and competing events can impact attendance.
• Fan Engagement: Marketing efforts and fan loyalty programs might increase attendance.
• Venue Accessibility: The location and accessibility of the venue can play a significant role.

By analyzing year-over-year changes, like our 344 decrease for the Bobcats from Year 1 to Year 2, organizations can make strategic decisions to enhance overall fan experience and attendance figures.