0Classes explore different scenarios using manipulatives to learn about the difference between independent and dependent probability. Learners experiment with colored chips to model the two types of probabilities. To test their understanding, individuals sort independent and dependent probabilities into like groups.
Real Life Context The following examples could be used to explore real life contexts.
Looking at statistics from the Census, questions like:
• How long will I live?
• Will I get married?
• How many children will I have? These questions can be answered with some degree of certainty based on population statistics. Life assurance companies work out how much to charge for their premiums based on tables of life expectancy. Why are some premiums cheaper than others?
The following examples could be used to explore misconceptions:
• What is the most difficult number to get when throwing a fair die?
• Random events should have outcomes which appear random; for example, in the lotto theory tells us that any of the six numbers is equally likely to turn up, yet more people choose randomly spaced numbers than numbers which form a pattern like 1,2,3,4,5,6 etc.
• The likelihood of 2 consecutive numbers appearing in any Lotto draw (which is > 50%) could easily be investigated by reference to a number of recent draws.
