Overview of the Lesson Students extend their understanding of basic probability concepts as they learn to name all of the possible outcomes of an event as well as ways to express the likelihood of such an event occurring. Students use large number cubes and oversized playing cards as they explore ways to express probability. Computer software that simulates the rolling of a number cube 1,000 times in a few seconds is used to stimulate student inquiry. Students then compare their predictions with the actual spinner. Activity Sheets are located at the bottom of the .pdf Lesson Plan.
Procedure Show the students a small dish with an ice cube.
Ask students to describe the probability that some of the ice cube will remain by the end of the math lesson. Review concepts from the previous lesson using probability vocabulary such as likely, unlikely, certain, etc. Students may wish to refer to the vocabulary chart made in the previous lesson. To provide further review of the previous lesson, ask students where they would place the event on the probability scale. Show the class a large set of playing cards.