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Probability of Simple Events Guided Notes w/ Doodles | Simple Probability Notes
$4.25
Overview
- Standards: CCSS 7.SP.C.5, CCSS 7.SP.C.7, CCSS 7.SP.C.7.a
- Unit: 7th Grade → Unit 9: Probability
- Grade: 7th Grade
Get the Lesson Materials
Probability of Simple Events Guided Notes w/ Doodles | Simple Probability Notes
$4.25
Learning Objectives
After this lesson, students will be able to:
- Define probability of simple events
- Understand the concept of a uniform probability model
- Calculate the probability of a simple event using fractions, decimals, and percents
- Apply the concept of probability to solve real-life problems
- Interpret and analyze the results of probability calculations
- Use probability to make predictions and decisions
Prerequisites
Before this lesson, students should be familiar with:
- Basic understanding of fractions, decimals, and percents
- Basic multiplication and division skills of rational numbers
- Understanding of the concept of probability
- Ability to calculate probabilities using fractions, decimals, and percents
Materials
- Pencils
- Colored pencils or markers
- Probability of Simple Events Guided Notes w/ Doodles
Key Vocabulary
- Probability
- Simple events
- Likelihood
- Uniform probability model
- Fraction
- Decimal
- Percent
Procedure
Introduction
As a hook, ask students why knowing the likelihood of simple events is important. You can provide a real-life scenario, such as a game of rock-paper-scissors or tossing a coin, or use a video game reference like how likely they would be selected as the "imposter" in a game of among us and ask them how knowing the probability of certain outcomes can help in these situations. Refer to the last page of the guided notes as well as the FAQs below for ideas.
Use the first page of the guided notes to introduce the concept of probability and simple events. Explain that probability is the likelihood of an event happening, and simple events are events with only one outcome. Walk through the key points of the topic, such as how probability is measured on a scale from 0 to 1, where 0 means the event is impossible and 1 means the event is certain to happen.
Refer to the FAQ below for a walk-through on how to introduce the concept of probability and respond to common student questions. Make sure to address any misconceptions or difficulties students may have in understanding the concept.
Based on student responses, reteach concepts that students need extra help with. If your class has a wide range of proficiency levels, you can pull out students for reteaching and have more advanced students begin working on the practice exercises.
Practice
Have students practice finding the likelihood of simple events using the practice worksheet provided in the resource (pg 2. of guided notes). Walk around the classroom to answer any student questions and provide support as needed.
Fast finishers can dive into the maze activity (pg. 3 of guided notes) or color by number worksheets (pg. 4 of guided notes) included in the resource for extra practice. You can also assign it as homework for the remainder of the class.
Real-Life Application
Bring the class back together, and introduce the concept of real-life applications of probability of simple events. Discuss with the students how probability is used in everyday life to make decisions and predictions. Some examples of real-world applications of probability include:
- Weather forecasting: Meteorologists use probability to predict the likelihood of rain, snow, or other weather conditions. They analyze data and use mathematical models to estimate the chances of different weather events occurring.
- Sports: Probability is used in sports to predict the outcome of games and tournaments. For example, sports analysts often calculate the probability of a team winning based on factors such as past performance, player injuries, and weather conditions.
- Medical research: Probability plays a crucial role in medical research, particularly in clinical trials. Researchers use statistical analysis to determine the effectiveness of new treatments and calculate the probability of certain outcomes.
- Risk assessment: Probability is used in assessing risks and making informed decisions in fields such as insurance, finance, and business. For example, insurance companies use probability to determine premiums based on the likelihood of certain events, such as car accidents or property damage.
Refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section in the resource for more ideas on how to teach real-life applications of probability.
Extensions
Additional Print Practice
A fun, no-prep way to practice probability of simple events is Doodle Math — they’re a fresh take on color by number or color by code. It includes multiple levels levels of practice, perfect for a review day or sub plan.
Here are some activities to try:
Additional Self-Checking Digital Practice
If you’re looking for digital practice for probability of simple events, try my Pixel Art activities in Google Sheets. Every answer is automatically checked, and correct answers unlock parts of a mystery picture. It’s incredibly fun, and a powerful tool for differentiation.
Here's an activity to explore:
FAQs
The probability of a simple event is a measure of the likelihood that the event will occur. It is usually expressed as a fraction, decimal, or percent between 0 and 1.
To find the probability of a simple event, divide the number of favorable outcomes by the total number of possible outcomes.
A uniform probability model is a model in which all outcomes are equally likely to occur. In other words, each outcome has the same probability of happening.
To express probability as a fraction, write the number of favorable outcomes over the total number of possible outcomes. Simplify the fraction if possible.
To convert a decimal to a percent, multiply the decimal by 100. Move the decimal point two places to the right to convert it to percent form.
To convert a fraction to a decimal, divide the numerator (top number) by the denominator (bottom number). This will give you the decimal representation of the fraction.
To express probability as a percent, multiply the probability as a decimal by 100. This will give you the probability in percent form.
The range of probabilities for a simple event is between 0 and 1. A probability of 0 means the event is impossible, while a probability of 1 means the event is certain to occur.