Heads or Tails

A probability experiment that demonstrates what it really means to say that a tossed coin will come up heads one-half of the time.

Subject: Mathematics; Problem Solving
Topics:
- Statistics and Probability
- Look for a Pattern
- Make a Graph
- Use a Chart or Table
Grades: 4 - 8
Concepts:
- Probability
- Sample
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can apply the strategy "look for a pattern"
- Understands the effect of sample size on the accuracy of measured probabilities
- Can represent numerical data in chart and graph form
- Understands the purpose and value of organizing information in charts

Download Activity: Heads or Tails (PDF)

Hands-On Math Movie:

Undersea TreasureUndersea Treasure

Suppose you want to search for the largest sunken gold treasure in U.S. History. Who would you want on your team? Tom Thompson wanted a mathematician who specialized in probability.
Running time 5:40 minutes.

Watch the Movie