Our last few weeks have been busy with explorations in the area of Probability. The students began their study with Miss Burston last week by exploring some of the language we can use to discuss the likelihood of various events and situations (e.g., likely, unlikely, impossible, certain). This week, we started focussing on the difference between theoretical and experimental probability. Using spinners, we talked about how we could predict the probable outcome of a spin (theoretical probability) based on how the spinner was designed. We then put our predictions to the test by actually spinning and recording the results (experimental probability). Gisele then got us all wondering "Is there a connection between the number of times we spin a spinner (number of trials), and the type of results we get?". Do more trials mean that the results will more closely match what we think is supposed to happen? Below are some pictures of our partner work this week, as well as the 'flipping pennies' activity we did today to determine the effect of number of trials on experimental/theoretical probability. Every child took home their penny results today. Be sure to ask your child to explain the difference between the two types of probabilities!
|
AuthorRoom 139 is the home of: Archives
May 2012
Categories |