Using Dice to Develop Concepts of Probability
by Wayne Fetter, wfetter@mcneese.edu

Content Area(s)
Math

Grade Level(s)
5, 6, 7, 8, 

Overview
Students will use a Dice program on a Palm handheld to develop a statement that summarizes the probability of obtaining a specified sum when rolling one, two, or three dice at one time. Approximate Duration: 2 -50 minutes lessons

Software
Hardware:
Palm Zire 72 handheld
Software:
Die Roll
Calculator

Technology
Dice Roll Data Sheet
Dice Roll Assignment Instructions

Objectives
1. TLW predict outcomes for an event (i.e. probability of an event
occurring)
2. TLW correctly construct a data chart based on a sample.
3. TLW analyze results of a sample and compare results to a
prediction.
4. TLW develop generalizations based on the analysis of the sample
populations results.

Procedures
Lesson Procedures:
1. Introduction: Ask: "When we play games, there are a number of
ways we use to determine how far we can move. What are some of these
ways?" (get responses: dice, spinner, draw cards, etc)
Students will be asked if they have ever played a board game
involving dice to determine how many spaces they can move.

2. Today, we'll be looking at what happens when we throw dice to
determine our moves and what the chances are of getting a "five" if
we need that number to win the game. To do this, we'll be using our
handhelds and simulating the roll of the dice, recording the
results, and then looking at the results of a number of dice rolls
to see if there is a pattern.

3. Students are divided into pairs, with each pair having one
handheld, one data chart, and one assignment sheet with directions
and questions to answer.

4. Students are instructed to:
a. Predict how many times a "five" will be rolled in 50 rolls of a
single die.
b. Use the "Die Roll" program to simulate 50 rolls, recording in the
tally column the result of each roll.
c. Complete the data chart, including using the calculator to
determine an empirical probability (expressed as both a percent and
a fraction).
d. Compare the empirical probability with the prediction by
answering the questions on the assignment sheet.

5. Once they have completed step #4, including answering all the
questions, they will repeat the process in step #4, except that they
will now roll two dice 50 times, predicting how many times a sum
total of five will be the result on a single throw.

6. Students (in pairs) will analyze the results of the two sample to
determine similarities and differences in what happened.

7. Students will then be combined into groups of six (three pairs
will be combined) to share what they discovered.

8. Concluding activity: The teacher will provide a summary activity
by moving the entire class together and discussing what they learned
by doing this exercise. (see questions on the activity sheet that
will be used to lead both this discusssion and the analysis the
students do in steps 4-7). Students will also be asked to discuss
how this activity applies to the games they play (as listed back in
Step #1).

Other Supporting Material
Dice%20Roll%20Assignment%20Instructions
Die%20Roll%20Data%20Chart

Submitted on: 12/9/2004 11:31:16 AM