Exploring The Measures of Position and Its Real-life Applications ​

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A Mathematical Investigation

Presented to

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In Partial Fulfilment

of the Requirements in Mathematics 10

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by

Baltazar, Tracy Nichole​

Barsana, Kyrille Anne​

Capili, Alexa Marielle​

Ofiana, Aubrey Gail​

Ramos, Loraine

March 2025
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

I.​ INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………….……………1

II.​ CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK.......................................................3

III.​ REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE……......................................….3

IV.​ STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM….………………………………………………………6

V.​ EXPLORING SYSTEMATICALLY….……………………………………………….………7

VI.​ CONJECTURE………………………….………………………………………………………..11

VII.​ HIDDEN LEARNINGS………………………..………………………………………………12

BIBLIOGRAPHY…………………………………………………………………………….…..16

CURRICULUM VITAE…………………………………………………………………………18
 INTRODUCTION

Have you ever asked yourself why a certain examinee in quarterly

examinations gets a higher rank than the other examinees? How some state

colleges and universities are offering scholarship programs for graduating

students who belong to the upper 5%, 10%, or even 25%. What does this

mean to you?

To put it simply, a measure of position determines the position of a

single value in relation to other values in a sample or a population data set.

It gives us a way to see where a certain data point or value falls in a sample

or distribution. A measure can tell us whether a value is about the average,

or whether it’s unusually high or low. Measures of position are used for

quantitative data that falls on some numerical scale. Sometimes, measures

can be applied to ordinal variables— those variables that have an order, like

first, second…fiftieth. There are a lot of measures of position, but the most

common are the quartiles, deciles, and percentiles.

Quartiles

Are a form of percentiles. While deciles split the data into 10, quartiles

split them into quarters. A good way of remembering this is that “deci”

means a tenth, whereas quartile sounds similar to quarter, which is a fourth.​

Deciles
 Are a form of percentiles that split the data up into groups of 10%.

Meaning, every decile contains 10% of the data. To find the decile, first

order the data from least to greatest. Then, divide the data by 10. This

indicates the number of observed values within each decile.​ ​

Percentiles

Are a type of measure that divides a dataset into 100 equal parts.

Each percentile represents 1% of the data, meaning a specific percentile

tells us what percentage of the dataset falls below a given value. Percentiles

are commonly used in standardized testing, health assessments (such as

BMI percentiles), and salary rankings.​ ​

Z-Scores (also called standard scores)

This measures how far a value is from the mean, in terms of standard

deviations. Instead of dividing data into equal parts like percentiles, Z-scores

tell us how extreme or typical a value is within a dataset.

These are values below which a particular part or percentage of the

given set of observations fall. Quantiles divides the distribution into:

•Four equal parts called quartile

•Ten equal parts called decile

•One hundred equal parts called percentile

 ​

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

●​ Understanding ●​ Describing data ●​ Using the

percentiles, with the help of measures and
deciles, and measures of determining their
z-scores position for usability in real
concepts. various industries life choices.
(e.g., education,
health care,
●​ Understanding business). ●​ Understanding
how each issues with
measure aids in interpretation and
the knowledge of ●​ Determining use in real life
data distribution which measure scenarios.
would be most
suitable for
dataset analysis.

Figure 1: Conceptual Framework​

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE​

Measures of Position

Quartiles, deciles, and percentiles are position measures that are

important statistical data indicators of data distribution analysis. Moore et al.

(2018) are of the opinion that position measures enable one to value the
position of a data point in relation to the whole data set and therefore are

handy in various applications such as education, health, and business.

Research verifies that percentile ranks are applied in routine standardized

testing to determine a student's performance in comparison to other

students (Gall et al., 2019). Another research study by Johnson & Kuby

(2020) finds that z-scores have extensive use in medical diagnosis,

particularly to determine bone density and the growth pattern of children.

The studies conclude that measures of position have utility in

decision-making and data interpretation.

Application of Measures of Position in Real-life Situations​ ​

​ Mathematics plays a key role in problem-solving and interpretation in

the everyday world. Lovell (2016) emphasizes the importance of grounding

school mathematics in the everyday world and showing ways in which

students interpret mathematical concepts when placed in richer contexts. His

study demonstrates the ways in which implementing the use of logarithms

and exponential functions within a murder mystery exercise can assist

students to translate abstract math, with raised motivation and elevated

learning. This conforms to enhanced promotion of student-focused

approaches to learning where use within real life underpins grasp and

memorability.
More facts on Measures of Position​

Measures of position, such as quartiles, percentiles, and deciles, help in

understanding the distribution of data by dividing it into segments.

●​ The median is a key measure of position that represents the middle

value of a dataset when it is ordered, effectively splitting the data into

two equal halves.

●​ Quartiles divide a dataset into four equal parts, with the first quartile

(Q1) representing the 25th percentile, the second quartile (Q2) being

the median, and the third quartile (Q3) representing the 75th

percentile.

●​ Percentiles indicate the relative standing of a value within a dataset,

with the nth percentile being the value below which n percent of the

data falls.

●​ Deciles are similar to quartiles but divide the data into ten equal parts,

providing a more granular view of the data distribution.

Main Results​

​ The main result of measures of position is to identify where a specific

data point falls within a dataset relative to other values, indicating whether it

is considered high, low, or around the average value within the distribution;

essentially, it tells you the "position" of a value within the data set.
​

High Value - A data point is considered high if it falls in the upper range of

the dataset.

Low Value - A data point is considered low if it falls in the lower range of the

dataset.

Average Value - A data point is considered around the average if it falls near

the center of the dataset.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The purpose of the study is to investigate the concept of Measures of

Position and its real-life applications in various fields. Percentiles, quartiles,

and standard scores (z-scores) are examples of measures of position that

are essential in understanding data distribution, making comparisons, and

making informed decisions in different contexts. Still, a lot of professionals

and students find it difficult to understand their importance and real-life

applications beyond theoretical computations. This study aims to answer the

following questions:​

​ 1. How do measures of position aid in the analysis of real-world data?

​ 2. In what specific fields (e.g., education, health, business) are

measures of position commonly applied?​

​ 3. What difficulties do professionals and students have when

interpreting and applying measures of position in real-life situations?​

​ 4. How can understanding measures of position help to improve

decision-making processes in a wide range of industries?

EXPLORING SYSTEMATICALLY

Measures of Position

​ Measures of Position is a statistical tool or method to find the position

of the data value in a dataset. This includes the percentile, quartile, and

decile set.

​ For example, let us use the following scores: 65, 72, 81, 90, 76, 85,

92, 88, 78, 95. Find the: Q1, Q3, and the IQR.

​ Step 1. Arrange the set of numbers in lowest to highest: 65, 72, 76,

78, 81, 85, 88, 90, 92, 95

​ Step 2. Find the value of n (sample size): n=10

​ Step 3. Use the formula Qk= k(n+1)/4 for solving quartiles:

 Q1 = 1(10+1)/4

Q1 = 11/4

Q1 = 2.75 -> 3rd place

Q1 = 76

Q3 = 3(10+1)/4

Q3 = 33/4

Q3 = 8.25 -> 8th place

Q3 = 90

IQR = Q3-Q1

IQR = 90-76

IQR = 14

​ For another example, let us use the following scores: 42, 65, 71, 80,

85, 90, 92, 95, 98. Find the: P25, P50, and P75.

​ Step 1. Arrange the set of numbers in lowest to highest: 42, 65, 71,

80, 85, 90, 92, 95, 98.

​ Step 2. Find the value of n (sample size): n=9

​ Step 3. Use the formula Pk= k(n+1)/100 for solving percentiles:

P25 = 25(9+1)/100

P25 = 250/100

P25 = 2.5 -> 3rd place

P25 = 71

P50 = 50(9+1)/100

P50 = 500/100

P50 = 5 -> 5th place

P50 = 85

P75 = 75(9+1)/100

P75 = 750/100

P75 = 7.5 -> 8th place

P75 = 95
​ For the last example, let us use the following height of high school

students in inches: 58, 60, 62, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74,

75. Find the: D1, D5, and D9.

​ Step 1. Arrange the set of numbers in lowest to highest: 58, 60, 62,

64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75.

​ Step 2. Find the value of n (sample size): n=15

​ Step 3. Use the formula Dk= k(n+1)/10 for solving percentiles:

D1 = 1(15+1)/10

D1 = 16/10

D1 = 1.6 -> 2nd place

D1 = 60

D5 = 5(15+1)/10

D5 = 80/10

D5 = 8 -> 8th place

D5 = 68

—
 D9 = 9(15+1)/10

D9 = 144/10

D9 = 14.4 -> 14th place

D5 = 74

CONJECTURES

​ The study of measures of position and their real-life applications yields

significant insights, particularly in answering question number 1, it is easier

to analyze and comprehend real-world data more effectively when one is

familiar with quartiles, percentiles, and z-scores.​

​ According to the analysis of measures of position and their real-life

applications in response to question number 2, measures of position are

widely used in many different industries. The findings highlight that

numerous industries, such as business (market analysis), healthcare (BMI

percentiles), education (grading systems), and sports (athlete performance

rankings), depend heavily on these statistical techniques.​

​ According to the study on measures of positions and their real-life

applications to answer question number 3, the study reveals that while these
concepts are taught in schools, many individuals still struggle to apply them

in real-life decision-making scenarios. The gap between theoretical learning

and practical application suggests a need for more effective instructional

approaches.​

​ According to the study on measures of positions and their real-life

applications to answer question number 4, proper interpretation of measures

of position improves decision-making. Those who possess a solid

understanding of these concepts can make better decisions based on data

analysis.​

​ To improve comprehension and application better teaching techniques

and real-world examples are needed. Instead of focusing just on theoretical

calculations, students could find it easier to comprehend measurements of

position if they are taught through real-world applications.

HIDDEN LEARNINGS

​ The ongoing investigation to explore the Measures of Position and its

Real-life Applications have led the researchers to acquire the following

hidden learnings:
Through our exploration of Measures of Position and Its Real-life

Applications, we have uncovered several deeper insights beyond just

understanding quartiles, percentiles, and z-scores. These hidden learnings

emphasize how statistical measures influence decision-making, fairness, and

critical thinking in various aspects of life.

1. The Power of Data Interpretation

​ Understanding measures of position is not just about computing

percentiles or z-scores—it teaches us how to interpret data effectively. Many

real-life decisions, such as student rankings, income distribution, and even

health assessments, depend on accurate data interpretation.

Misinterpretation can lead to unfair evaluations, making it crucial to analyze

statistical data properly.

2. Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Application

​ One of the key challenges students and professionals face is the

difficulty in applying theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios. The study

revealed that while measures of position are taught in classrooms, their

real-world applications in fields like business, medicine, and education are

not always emphasized. Recognizing this gap highlights the need for more

hands-on learning approaches that integrate real-world data.

3. Decision-Making and Fairness

​ Statistical tools, including measures of position, play a crucial role in

determining fairness and equity in various settings. For example:

​ Education: Scholarships and academic distinctions are awarded based

on percentile rankings.

​ Healthcare: Growth charts and BMI percentiles help doctors assess

patient health.

​ Business: Companies use salary percentiles to ensure competitive

compensation.

​ This reinforces the idea that understanding these measures can help

individuals make informed and fair decisions in both professional and

personal contexts.

4. Ethical Considerations in Data Analysis

​ While measures of position are valuable, they can also be misused. For

instance:

​ Data can be manipulated to support biased conclusions.

​ Misleading percentile reports can influence hiring or admissions

unfairly.
​ Standardized test scores may not always reflect true capabilities due

to various external factors.

​ This emphasizes the ethical responsibility of using statistical data

appropriately and ensuring that conclusions drawn from such data are fair

and unbiased.

5. Enhancing Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

​ Learning how to analyze data using measures of position improves

critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. By interpreting trends,

identifying patterns, and making data-driven predictions, individuals can

develop a more analytical mindset, which is essential in academic research,

professional careers, and everyday decision-making.

6. The Need for Improved Statistical Literacy

​ Many people struggle to understand how measures of position

influence their lives. Whether it’s in evaluating financial investments,

comparing job offers, or assessing academic progress, statistical literacy is

an essential skill. Encouraging a deeper understanding of these concepts can

empower individuals to make better choices based on data analysis.

Conclusion

​ The study of measures of position goes beyond mere computation—it

fosters data literacy, fairness, ethical reasoning, and critical thinking.

Recognizing these hidden learnings allows us to appreciate the profound

impact of statistical tools in shaping decisions, policies, and everyday

experiences. Ultimately, by deepening our understanding of these measures,

we can become more informed, analytical, and responsible decision-makers

in various fields of life.

Bibliography

- Moore, D. S., Notz, W. I., & Fligner, M. A. (2018). The Basic Practice of

Statistics. Macmillan. Retrieved from :

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00029890.1999.12005027

- Gall, M. D., Borg, W. R., & Gall, J. P. (2019). Educational Research: An

Introduction. Pearson. Retrieved from :

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/232559864_Educational_Research

_An_Introduction

- Johnson, R. A., & Kuby, P. (2020). Elementary Statistics. Cengage

Learning. Retrieved from :

https://faculty.cengage.com/works/9780538733502
- Lovell, R. S. (2016). Real-world applications in math class. Simon Fraser

University. Retrieved from : https://summit.sfu.ca

​

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:

​ 2013-2014 ​ ​ ​ Day Care Center

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Brgy Pag-ibig sa Nayon Quezon City

​ 2014–2015​ ​ ​ ​ Kindergarten
San Jose Pag-ibig Sa Nayon Annex
Elementary School Quezon City
​ ​ ​ ​ ​
2015-2021​ ​ ​ ​ Elementary
San Jose Pag-ibig Sa Nayon Annex
Elementary School Quezon City

​ 2021-2025​ ​ ​ ​ Highschool
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Tandang Sora Integrated School
​

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

​ Age: 16 years old​ ​ ​ Sex: Female

​ Birthdate: December 16, 2008​ ​ Birthplace: Manila
​ Weight: 58 kgs.​ ​ ​ ​ Height: 1.57 m.
​ Civil Status: Single​ ​ ​

I hereby certify that the above data are true and correct with the best of my
knowledge.

Tracy Nichole A. Baltazar

​
​

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:

​ 2013-2014 ​ ​ ​ E. Nopi Learning Center​

​
​ 2014-2015​ ​ ​ ​ Akuss Center for Early Childhood
​
2016-2017 ​ ​ ​ Master Hand School Incorporated​
​
​ 2017-2020​ ​ ​ ​ Caloocan Evangelical School, Inc.

​ 2021-2025​ ​ ​ ​ Tandang Sora Integrated School

​

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

​ Age: 15 years old​ ​ ​ Sex: Female

​ Birthdate: October 7, 2009​ ​ Birthplace: Pasay
​ Weight: 65 kgs.​ ​ ​ ​ Height: 1.54 m.
​ Civil Status: Single​ ​ ​

I hereby certify that the above data are true and correct with the best of my
knowledge.

Kyrille Anne S. Barsana

​
​

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:

​ 2013-2014 ​ ​ ​ Day Care Center

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Holy Spirit Child Development Center

​ 2015-2016​ ​ ​ ​ Kinder - Grade 1

Sta. Quiteria Elementary School
​ ​ ​ ​ ​
2017-2021​ ​ ​ ​ Elementary
East Bagong Barrio Elementary School

​ 2021-2025​ ​ ​ ​ Highschool
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Tandang Sora Integrated School
​

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

​ Age: 15 years old​ ​ ​ Sex: Female

​ Birthdate: August 1, 2009​ ​ Birthplace: Manila
​ Weight: 63 kgs.​ ​ ​ ​ Height: 1.58 m.
​ Civil Status: Single​ ​ ​

I hereby certify that the above data are true and correct with the best of my
knowledge.

Alexa Marielle P. Capili

​
​
​
​

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:

​ 2013-2014 ​ ​ ​ Day Care Center

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Brgy Pag-ibig sa Nayon Quezon City

​ 2014–2015​ ​ ​ ​ Kindergarten
San Josef Peñaranda Nueva Ecija​
​ ​ ​ ​ ​
2015-2021​ ​ ​ ​ Elementary
San Jose Pag-ibig Sa Nayon Annex
Elementary School Quezon City

​ 2021-2025​ ​ ​ ​ Highschool
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Tandang Sora Integrated School
​

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

​ Age: 15 years old​ ​ ​ Sex: Female

​ Birthdate: March 27, 2009​ ​ Birthplace: Manila
​ Weight: 48 kgs.​ ​ ​ ​ Height: 1.57 m.
​ Civil Status: Single​ ​ ​

I hereby certify that the above data are true and correct with the best of my
knowledge.

Aubrey Gail P.
Ofiana
​
​

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:

​ 2013-2014 ​ ​ ​ Day Care Center

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Brgy Pag-ibig sa Nayon Quezon City

​ 2014–2015​ ​ ​ ​ Kindergarten
San Josef Peñaranda Nueva Ecija​
​ ​ ​ ​ ​
2015-2021​ ​ ​ ​ Elementary
San Jose Pag-ibig Sa Nayon Annex
Elementary School Quezon City

​ 2021-2025​ ​ ​ ​ Highschool
​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Tandang Sora Integrated School
​

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

​ Age: 15 years old​ ​ ​ Sex: Female

​ Birthdate: February 27, 2009​ ​ Birthplace: Manila
​ Weight: 42 kgs.​ ​ ​ ​ Height: 1.42 m.
​ Civil Status: Single​ ​ ​

I hereby certify that the above data are true and correct with the best of my
knowledge.

Loraine E. Ramos