The "Probabilities" Series

Students will create a computer simulation to test the probability of an event, in this case of two people in a class having the same birthday. This activity can be modified to demonstrate the probability of other events, such as the chance of rolling the same number on a die or on multiple dice.

Students will code the computer to:

• Stamp a shape for each person’s birthday in a randomly determined location.

• Create variables using sliders, and text boxes.

• Create conditional statements to test conditions and control action.

Grades: 5 - 8

Time: maybe 3 60 minute sessions

Students will code an investigation to see how trial size impacts the probability of an event.

Students will code the computer to:

• Randomly choose an event

• Set the number of trials for an investigation

• Keep track of how many times an event occurs

• Create a graph using the data

Grades: 4 - 8

Time: maybe 3 60 minute sessions

Students will create a Calculator Program.

Students will code the computer to:

• Retrieve input from the user via text boxes

• Create variables and store values

• Create an interactive button

• Perform operations on numbers entered by the user

• Animate a shape using Repeat

• Hide and show text boxes

• Advanced options include:

• Incorporating additional buttons and operations

• Try coding other applications that require the same skills

Grades: 6 - 8

Time: maybe 3 60 minute sessions

Students will create a gravity simulation.

This activity will allow the students to demonstrate how a object is affected by gravity and rolls down an incline plane or hill.

For this simulation and animation the students will use a ball to show what this might look like.

Students will code the computer to:

• Locate objects using coordinates

• Create backgrounds

• Direct actions based on compass headings

• Write procedures

• Use buttons to trigger actions

• Animate an object to simulate movement

• Add a slider to create variables

• Advanced options include:

  • Using more complex inclined plane

Grades: 3 - 8

Time: maybe 5 60 minute sessions