By Joseph Nolan (Northern Kentucky University)
Information
This poster presents a classroom activity developed for use with Elementary Education majors at a 4-year regional institution. While mating mice (with dice), students are introduced to empirical simulations, foundational concepts for theoretical probability, and the basic structure and use of probability trees. The activity is designed to take 1-2 class days depending on the length of the class sessions, and to add complexity as students progress from one part to the next (generally working in small groups). Students are also encouraged to consider ways to modify the activity for actual use with 4th and/or 5th graders as a multidisciplinary activity that simultaneously incorporates both biological science and mathematics/statistics into their elementary classrooms.