Probability is one of the most important topics that kids learn in math class.
Students must be able to make reasonable predictions about the future. Without a strong understanding of probability, their decision-making skills can be limited.
Hands-on, exploratory activities allow students to become actively engaged in the learning process.
So, how can you ensure that your kids are able to understand the concept of probability (beyond memorizing rules and procedures)?
In the latest Mashup Math Vlog, I share an exploratory, hands-on probability activity that can be used to engage students and allow them to develop a strong conceptual understanding.
The lesson objective is for students to develop a probability area model and use it to find probabilities of events.
Teachers can use this activity to engage students with a visual or kinesthetic learning preference.
And did I mention that it involves candy?
If you are interested in implementing this activity with your students in the classroom or with your kids at home (this is a great activity for homeschool students), you can watch the vlog below for a step-by-step guide.
(You can also download the PDF Lesson Companion by clicking here!)
Reminder: Students are expected to experience productive struggle when engaged in exploratory activities. It is important to allow them to make mistakes and work through them in order to develop conceptual understanding. Teachers should allow students to work out mistakes on their own and redirect students as seldom as possible.
If you have any great ideas for improving this lesson, please share them in the comments below!
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By Anthony Persico
Anthony is the content crafter and head educator for YouTube's MashUp Math and an advisor to Amazon Education's 'With Math I Can' Campaign. You can often find me happily developing animated math lessons to share on my YouTube channel . Or spending way too much time at the gym or playing on my phone.