Basketball Probability

Grade Level(s):  6^th Grade

Content Area:                                                                        Process Area:

Numbers and Operations                                           Problem-Solving

Algebra                                                           Reasoning and Proof

Geometry                                                                    Communication

Measurement                                                             Representation

Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability                    Connections

Common Core Standards:

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.RP.A.3: Use ratio and rate reasoning to solve real-world and mathematical problems, e.g., by reasoning about tables of equivalent ratios, tape diagrams, double number line diagrams, or equations.

·         CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.RP.A.3.C: Find a percent of a quantity as a rate per 100 (e.g., 30% of a quantity means 30/100 times the quantity); solve problems involving finding the whole, given a part and the percent.

Targeted Needs of Student:

Visually and kinesthetically experimenting with probability, introducing probability, applying a real-world example,

Goal:

To introduce to students in a familiar way a real-world application of probability.  

Materials Needed:

1.      Basketball

2.      Hoop in the classroom

Explanation/Summary:

As an introduction to probability, students will be able to shoot a few baskets in the classroom from close to the hoop. The teacher will then ask students to walk farther away and try and shoot a basket from there. Then the teacher will say that the probability of the student making the shot is higher when the student is closer and the probability of the student making the shot is lower when the student is further away.

Resource:

www.shenanigansinsecond.blogspot.com