Rahi's Maths Learning Story

Learners: Henry & Rahi    Learning Coach: T.Dillner           Date: 26.6.15

Learning Area: Mathematics - Probability

Learning Observed

Recently in Mrs Dillner’s Maths group, we have been learning about Probability and Chance. We were talking about the probability of random events like flipping a coin or rolling a dice. Before the learners chose which activity they would like to do, they had to understand tally charts and how to use them. Each learner had to have a tally chart created to show how they would record their data. Rahi and Henry chose to flip a coin. They had to flip it 50 times and record how many times the coin landed on heads or tails. We had previously discussed how as there are only two possibilities, the chances were 50:50. To begin with, Rahi and Henry took a while to settle into the activity and work out how to evenly distribute the roles of flipping and recording. However, they then chose a sensible place to work and made good progress. After 50 flips, they had the outcome of 25 heads to 25 tails, proving the 50:50 likelihood correct. They thought about what their next step could be, and together, they decided it would be to keep rolling in sets of 50 to see if they could break the 50:50 cycle.

Evidence of learning

Key Competencies/Vision Principles

Henry and Rahi showed that they knew how to best collaborate on this task. Sometimes sharing and compromise is necessary when working in a team, and they worked this out after a short while (Relating to Others and Managing Self). Another example of good collaboration was when the boys had to solve the problem of what to do after having equal outcomes after 50 flips (Thinking). They were both very curious to see if they would prove the 50:50 probability of flipping a coin or not.

Next Learning Steps

Carry out a Probability investigation with less than a 50:50 chance e.g. rolling a dice 60 times. Use their written reflection to make a video or blog post to teach other learners.