MDM4U
Mathematics of Data Management
This Grade 12 university preparation course broadens students’ understanding of mathematics as it relates to managing data. Students study counting, probability, probability distributions, sampling, data collection and statistical analysis, and complete a culminating data-management investigation integrating the major concepts and skills of the course.
Grade
12
Credit
1.0
Delivery
Online
Prerequisite
MCR3U or MCF3M
About This Course
This Grade 12 university preparation course broadens students’ understanding of mathematics as it relates to managing data. Students study counting, probability, probability distributions, sampling, data collection and statistical analysis, and complete a culminating data-management investigation integrating the major concepts and skills of the course.
What You'll Learn
- Solve probability problems involving discrete sample spaces and combinations of events.
- Apply permutations and combinations to counting and probability problems.
- Represent and analyze discrete and continuous probability distributions, including the normal distribution.
- Understand data variability, sampling techniques and principles of primary data collection.
- Analyze one-variable and two-variable data using numerical, graphical and algebraic summaries.
- Design, carry out, communicate and critique a culminating data-management investigation.
Skills You'll Develop
- Probability and counting techniques
- Statistical reasoning and data analysis
- Sampling and data collection
- Spreadsheet, graphing and statistical-tool use
- Research design, interpretation and communication
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Solve probability problems for discrete sample spaces using appropriate counting techniques.
- Represent and analyze discrete probability distributions and expected values.
- Analyze continuous distributions and apply the normal distribution to relevant problems.
- Explain data variability, sampling techniques and principles of good data collection.
- Analyze and interpret one-variable and two-variable data.
- Evaluate uses and misuses of data in media, advertising and occupational contexts.
- Design and complete a culminating investigation and communicate findings clearly.
Course Units
The following reflects the school’s planned organization of the course. Approximate time allocations may be adjusted while all curriculum expectations and required planned learning are maintained.
| Unit | Title / Major Learning Focus | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Probability and Discrete Sample Spaces | 12 hours |
| 2 | Permutations and Counting Techniques | 14 hours |
| 3 | Combinations and Applications of Counting | 14 hours |
| 4 | Probability Distributions for Discrete Variables | 10 hours |
| 5 | Continuous Variables and the Normal Distribution | 13 hours |
| 6 | Organization of Data, Sampling and Data Collection | 15 hours |
| 7 | Statistical Analysis of One-Variable Data | 15 hours |
| 8 | Two-Variable Data Analysis and Culminating Investigation | 15 hours |
| Final | Mandatory Written Final Examination | 2 hours |
Assessment
Assessment uses evidence gathered over time from student work, conversations and observations. The final grade for 2026–2027 is determined as follows:
| Component | Weight | How It Is Determined |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework throughout the course | 65% | Includes the culminating data-management investigation and other evidence gathered throughout the course. |
| Mandatory written final examination | 25% | Mandatory Grade 12 mathematics written final examination. |
| Attendance and participation | 10% | Based on meaningful attendance and participation; excused absences do not negatively affect this component. |
Examples of Assessment Evidence
Assessment may include counting and probability problems, simulations, data-collection and sampling tasks, spreadsheets, graphing and statistical analysis, media-data critiques, tests, written interpretations, the culminating data-management investigation and the final written examination.
Pathways
MDM4U develops numeracy, problem solving, information management, communication, research and technology skills relevant to university programs and careers in business, social sciences, health, data science, statistics, economics and public policy.
The course is especially valuable for programs requiring statistical literacy, quantitative analysis or data-driven decision making.
Teacher Support
- Students learn through the school's secure online learning environment and receive ongoing support from qualified teachers.
- Teacher-supported conferencing, tutorials and scheduled live support are available as appropriate.
- Teachers provide explicit instruction, modelling and worked examples in counting, probability, distributions, sampling and statistical analysis.
- Simulations, probability experiments, spreadsheets, graphing tools and statistical software are used where appropriate.
- Authentic data sets, media claims, surveys, sampling methods and sources of bias support applied statistical reasoning.
- Collaborative discussion, math talk, conferencing, peer explanation, self-assessment and revision support the culminating investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the course code?
MDM4U — Mathematics of Data Management, Grade 12, University Preparation.
What is the prerequisite?
Functions, Grade 11, University Preparation (MCR3U), or Functions and Applications, Grade 11, University/College Preparation (MCF3M).
How many credits is MDM4U?
The course is worth 1.0 Ontario secondary school credit.
What topics are covered?
Counting, probability, probability distributions, sampling, data collection, statistical analysis and a culminating data-management investigation.
How is the final grade calculated?
65% coursework (including the culminating investigation), 25% mandatory written final examination, and 10% attendance and participation.
Does the course use technology?
Yes. Simulations, spreadsheets, graphing tools and statistical software may be used to investigate and analyze data.
What programs and careers does MDM4U support?
Business, social sciences, health sciences, data science, statistics, economics, public policy and other programs requiring quantitative reasoning.
Ready to Take This Course?
$549 / Credit
- Provided by CSW — Canadian School of the World
- Ontario Ministry of Education registered
- Delivered fully online
Need Help Deciding?
Not sure if this is the right course? Book a free 30-minute meeting with a CSW advisor.
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