Compared to the use of the word "average" in the media and in everyday conversations, an average is used very precisely in mathematics. This is complicated by the fact that there are three different types of averages: means, medians, and modes. As with other concepts, scaffolding understanding of mathematical averages is important. Such understanding is one of the proficiency strands or key ideas in the "Australian Curriculum: Mathematics" (ACARA, 2015a). The aim of a focus on understanding avoids superficial statements about averages, and of descriptions referring to methods of calculating averages with no connections to conceptual understanding and to real-life applications. Developing understanding of averages can be achieved through multiple scaffolding activities, including activities that focus on real data, and activities that extend to critical thinking about the use of the words average and median in the media.