Presents a solution to the problem of finding the probability that a needle would cross a crack in a tile floor when dropped. (MKR)

Presents a brief historical sketch of the life and work of one of the founders of modern mathematical physics. Discusses three problem-solving applications of the Poisson distribution with examples from elementary probability theory. Provides background on two of his noteworthy results from the physics of oscillations and the deformation of rigid…

Analyzes how each of the three opponents could win on the game show "Jeopardy" regardless of their relative standing when they enter the Final Jeopardy round. Analyzes optimal strategies for each contestant using probabilities. (MKR)

Presents an educational game on probability that can be the starting point for an open-ended statistical project. (ASK)

Presents an activity in which the subject is the identity of the team in the greatest jeopardy of becoming the big loser in a basketball tournament. Explores several facts about the big loser, offering them in a hierarchy appropriate for creating various short- and long-term projects for a high school mathematics class. (ASK)

Describes an activity on probability to serve mathematics and science objectives while including the use of art in a game. (ASK)

The author suggests several problems which can be investigated by beginning statistics students. All the problems discussed arise from the game Bingo. (SD)

A seven-day unit on probability used an experimental game-oriented approach, which allowed students the opportunity to draw conclusions from experiments in which interest was high. (MP)

The decision to draw another card or stand pat in blackjack can be made by computing two simple probabilities. (MP)

A sequence of numbers from combinatorial theory called the Bell numbers is discussed, along with several problems and examples that demonstrate their usefulness. (MN)

Discusses how the discovery of chaos has created a new paradigm in scientific modeling and how findings are contributing to changes in thought about many different branches of science. Includes explanations and examples of how chaotic behavior can be understood. (ML)

A realistic problem is presented, computing the probability of winning a sports playoff series if the probability if winning a single game is known. Only simple permutation formulas and some basic logic are required to solve the problem. Two computer programs and a discussion of solution methods are included. (MNS)

Suggestions for five activities are presented. They include: ideas for several student problem-solving projects; preparing a flowsheet and program for 10 coin and dice games; using word processor formatting commands to create word designs; creating sounds; and writing a program to print out sums indefinitely. (JN)

Explains an application of matrix algebra which involves probability matrices and weather predictions. Using probabilities of sunny or cloudy weather students can determine the effect weather on day one will have on subsequent days. (DH)

Four answers to a probability problem involving a perceived coincidence are discussed. (MNS)