Describes the "Buffon's Needle" problem, which is calculating the probability that a needle will cross one of two separated lines. Calculates the probability when the length of the needle is greater than the space of the two lines. Provides an analytic solution and the results of a computer simulation. (YP)

Methods of probability modeling to analyze rater agreement are described, emphasizing their basic similarities and viewing them as variants of a common methodology. Statistical techniques for analyzing agreement data are described to address questions such as how many opinions are required to make a medical diagnosis with necessary accuracy. Kappa…

An activity in a college statistics class had students go to a field of grass and clover and use a variety of estimation, probability, sampling, distribution, and calculation techniques for determining the number of flowers in the field. The activity focused on the discovery process, encouraged abstract reasoning, and was pleasurable. (MSE)

A variety of suggestions for making the mathematics curriculum more meaningful and interesting to students are described. Activities that incorporate real-world situations are provided for verbal items, common and decimal fractions, estimations and rounding off numbers, large and small numbers, geometry, probability, and statistics. (KR)

Examines variations on the classic problem that asks for the fewest number of people so that the probability of two people having the same birthday is at least one-half. Extends the problem to consider the probability of a bridge player having the same hand in a lifetime. (MDH)

Features activities for advanced second-year algebra students in grades 11 and 12. Introduces three random variables and considers an empirical and theoretical probability for each. Uses coins, regular dice, decahedral dice, and calculators. (ASK)

Discusses a game to present middle-grade students that involves both choice and chance to help them understand the significance and usefulness of mathematical probability. Discusses winning versus self-improvement and provides a student worksheet to help students in thinking about the game. (MKR)

Describes how multicultural children's literature was used to launch a series of lessons to help children gain insights into a wide range of mathematics concepts and cultures. (ASK)

Presents sports-oriented examples (cricket and football) in which Monte Carlo methods are used on microcomputers to teach probability concepts. Both examples include computer programs (with listings) which utilize the microcomputer's random number generator. Instructional strategies, with further challenges to help students understand the role of…

This study was designed to determine the effectiveness of two microcomputer instructional games in teaching probability and measurement estimation to 78 preservice elementary school teachers. The probability game did not seem effective, and the estimation game was only marginally effective. Patterns of change are discussed. (MNS)

This book was developed for teachers, youth group leaders, after-school child care providers, and parents, who may not have the time or the expertise to develop strategies for preparing students to be effective problem solvers. The content is organized in a pyramid style to make it easy to locate and grasp the information provided. Information on…

Explains a new way of viewing Bayes' formula. Discusses the revision factor and its interpretation. (YP)

Describes the use of the children's book, "The Wolf's Chicken Stew," to present open-ended tasks designed to involve children in problem solving: estimating; conducting probability experiments; and collecting, sorting, classifying, displaying, and interpreting data. (MKR)

Presents activities utilized with primary teachers to alleviate instructional concerns about using calculators and provide reasons for using calculators in their mathematics instruction. Activities address the topics of estimation, number sense, numeration, whole number and fraction operations, probability, and problem solving. (MDH)

Consumer Mathematics II is described as a one-year course for students in grades 9-12 who choose not to take an algebra course, but who need to broaden their mathematical understanding and skills. This curriculum guide is designed to be used in conjunction with a planbook and used as a resource in terms of long-range (semester or year) and…