WRITING ASSIGNMENT #1 Descriptive Statistics

In this assignment you will choose three variables from the GSS dataset to analyze. You should choose one nominal, one ordinal, and one interval-ratio variable.

Using SPSS, you will then create frequency distributions, figures, and the appropriate descriptive statistics (measures of central tendency and variability/dispersion) for each of your variables and write a short description discussing what you know about each of the concepts from your analysis.

**Note: NO CROSSTABS FOR THIS ASSIGNMENT

Your paper should be in essay form with appropriate tables and figures inserted (be sure to number and title). It should hit all of the following points (in essay format). While the tables and figures will take up additional space, the text should only be 1-3 pages (double-spaced, 12-point font) depending on your variables and how much there is to say.

CONCEPTS & LEVEL OF MEASUREMENT (15 POINTS)

1. Using the GSS dataset provided and the GSS codebook identify the variables you will use. Be sure to choose one nominal, one ordinal, and one interval-ratio variable. Discuss exactly what each variable is measuring (e.g. what is the question in the survey). (5 points)
2. Be sure to note the level of measurement of the variable (nominal, ordinal, interval-ratio) and how the responses are coded (e.g. in dollars, yes/no, etc.). (5 points)
3. Outline the broad concept that you believe each of the variables is measuring (e.g. if you are using a variable on smoking does it measure health, or risky behaviors, or addictive personality, etc.?). (5 points)

SPSS FIGURES/GRAPHS AND TABLES (15 POINTS)

(Be sure to number and title all figures and tables and insert in your paper.)

• Using SPSS create frequency distributions for each of your three variables. (5 points)

• Using SPSS create appropriate figures/graphs for each of your three variables depending on the level of measurement. (5 points)

• Using SPSS calculate the APPROPRIATE descriptive statistics for each of your three variables depending on the level of measurement. (5 points)

DISCUSSION (15 POINTS)

• Write a short description of your findings describing each variable. You should have one discussion for each variable that utilizes all of the SPSS information you create (4 to 6 above). It should succinctly and thoroughly summarize the variable; it should not simply relist statistics in paragraph form.

WRITING STYLE (5 POINTS)

Be sure to spell check and proofread your work. Writing style, including grammar and spelling count.