Question

Which statement best illustrates a negative correlation between the number of hours spent watching TV the week before an exam and the grade on that exam? a. Watching too much television leads to poor exam performance. b. Smart students watch less television. c. Viewing television interferes with a student's ability to prepare for the upcoming exam. d. Students who watch more television perform more poorly on their exams.

Short answer

The correct statement that best illustrates a negative correlation between the number of hours spent watching TV the week before an exam and the grade on that exam is: (d) Students who watch more television perform more poorly on their exams.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Negative Correlation

Negative correlation refers to the inverse relation between two variables. In this case, the more one watches TV, the lower the exam grade. The correct statement would depict this inverse relationship.

Reviewing Options (a) and (b)

Option (a) seems to suggest a negative effect, but it does not specifically imply a correlation. Similarly, option (b) does not suggest correlation but rather makes an assumption about 'smart' students.

Reviewing Options (c) and (d)

Option (c) suggests that watching television might have a negative impact, yet it does not indicate any correlation. Option (d) suggests that as the number of hours watching TV goes up, performance on the exams goes down which correctly mirrors the negative correlation.

Conclusion

Based on the nature of negative correlation, the best choice is the option that illustrates a decrease in exam grades with an increase in hours spent watching TV. Thus, option (d) is the best choice.