After each group makes 50 tosses, the data from both groups are added together making a total of 100 trials. Discuss the results after a few trials. Encourage students to observe patterns that emerge as the number of simulations increase. Assist students in understanding that increasing the number of trials helps them make a more accurate prediction. Have students analyze the data and compare the experimental results with their predictions.
Students can research the actual percentages of land and water on Earth.
Students compare their experimental results with the actual percentages of land and water. Have students write notes to Cam and Eric, the two main characters of Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the UFO , telling them what they have learned about probability from doing this simulation. They may offer advice to Cam or Eric about the potential dangers of a UFO or a meteorite striking their house. Remind students that their letters should have words and numbers in their explanations. Collect students' notes and evaluate them for understanding of simulation and probability.