Using research projects to help develop high school students' statistical thinking

This article describes two projects in which we attempted to help Advanced Placement (AP) statistics students become proficient at moving through the investigative cycle. Although the projects were implemented in an AP class, they could be included as part of any class in which linear equations and best-fit lines are studied. As we describe the two projects, we also discuss some of our reflections on the extent to which the projects helped our students become more proficient. In the first project, the students focused on the data analysis and inference phases. In the second project, the students had the opportunity to experience all phases of the cycle.