Question

Use the following for questions 26-30. Terri has grades of 75, 87, 96, 75, and 88 prior to the final exam in her math class. What the average of Terri's grades? A. 79 B. 82 C. 84 D. 90

Short answer

The average of Terri's grades is 84. The correct answer is C.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Grades

Terri has the following grades: 75, 87, 96, 75, and 88.

Add All the Grades

To find the average, first sum all the grades: \(75 + 87 + 96 + 75 + 88\).

Calculate the Total Sum

Add the numbers together: \(75 + 87 + 96 + 75 + 88 = 421\).

Count the Number of Grades

Count the total number of grades. In this case, there are 5 grades.

Calculate the Average

Divide the total sum by the number of grades: \( \frac{421}{5} = 84.2 \).

Round the Average

Since the choices are whole numbers, round 84.2 to the nearest whole number: 84.

Select the Correct Answer

Match the rounded average to the given choices. The correct answer is C. 84.

Key concepts

Grade Average

Calculating a grade average is a fundamental skill that helps us understand overall performance in a subject. In Terri's case, she has five grades: 75, 87, 96, 75, and 88.
To find the average, follow these steps:

• First, sum all the grades: 75 + 87 + 96 + 75 + 88.
• This equals 421 when added together.
• Next, count the number of grades, which is 5.
• Finally, divide the total sum by the number of grades: \(\frac{421}{5} = 84.2\).

Since we need a whole number for the answer, round 84.2 to 84. This process gives a good measure of overall performance and shows how individual grades contribute to an average score.

Basic Arithmetic

Basic arithmetic is the foundation of many mathematical tasks, including calculating averages. It involves operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
For Terri's grades, we primarily use:

• Addition to sum the grades: \(75 + 87 + 96 + 75 + 88 = 421\).
• Division to find the average: \( \frac{421}{5} = 84.2 \).

Knowing basic arithmetic ensures you can handle everyday calculations, such as balancing a checkbook, cooking measurements, or splitting bills. It builds a solid base for more advanced topics like algebra and geometry. Practicing these skills regularly will help reinforce your understanding and speed up your calculation process.

Mathematical Reasoning

Mathematical reasoning involves the logical thought process used to solve math problems. With Terri’s grades, we used logical steps to find the average.
Here's how reasoning comes into play:

• Identify what is being asked: the average grade.
• Use known operations (addition and division) in a logical order to find the sum and then the average.
• Rounding the result to make it match the multiple-choice format.

Reasoning helps ensure that all steps are followed correctly and that the result makes sense. It is crucial for problem-solving and helps build a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Whether it's a simple average calculation or a complex algebraic equation, reasoning guides you to the right solution.

GED Test Preparation

Preparing for the GED test involves mastering various concepts, including calculating averages. Knowing how to handle problems like Terri's grade average is key.
Follow these tips for test preparation:

• Understand the format of questions; multiple-choice questions often appear on the GED.
• Practice basic math skills regularly: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Focus on rounding numbers correctly, a common requirement in the exam.
• Work on your problem-solving speed and accuracy—time management is crucial during tests.

By practicing these skills, you’ll be better equipped to handle the math section of the GED. Remember, consistency is key. Regular practice with a variety of problems will build confidence and improve your mathematical skills.