First, review what you know about probability:

 

If I flip a coin, what is the probability that I will land on heads?

 

1      The top number is the number of outcomes that match what I’m looking for (heads!)

2                  The bottom number is the total number of outcomes that are possible.

 

 

The probability of landing on heads is ½.

 

 

If I roll a dice (the sides of the dice are marked with the numbers 1 through 6), what is the probability that I will land on an even number?

 

3      There are three even numbers on the dice, these are the outcomes I’m looking for

6      There are six possible outcomes

 

 

Probability can also be written as equivalent fractions.    For example, if I roll a dice, the probability that I will land on an even number is 3/6.  I could also say that the probability of landing on an even number is ½

 

Now, get ready to play the game:

 

Today, you will be playing a probability game called “Fish Tank.”  In this game, you have to name the probability that you will catch a red fish in a tank full of red and yellow fish. 

 

Start by playing the game at Level 1.  Play the game at least twice, or until you get all five questions right.  When you are ready, go on to Level 2.  In order to play level 2, you will have to really think about equivalent fractions!

 

Finally, share what you learned:

 

In your math journal, Draw one of the Fish Tank problems from the Level 2 Fish Tank game.  Describe what you did in order to make the fish in the tank match the probability that was given.

 

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