Math Tools Activity: Fish Farm, Part II Problem

Activity: Fish Farm, Part II Problem

Go to:

http://mathforum.org/escotpow/print_puzzler.ehtml?puzzle=41 (opens a new window)

Description:

This problem allows students to investigate different data collection methods. Students realize that they get different data depending on whether they have a small sample size, but a large number of trials; a large sample size and a small number of trials, etc. With further experimenting, students can discover which method of collecting data gives the most accurate results. In addition, the bonus question deals with the concept of expected value. Given the number of fish in the pond and the size of the sample, students can realize intuitively that the ratio of males to females in their sample should be close to the actual ratio. If they investigate the probability of getting a male or female fish, they can discover the formula for expected value, and why it works.

Technology Type:

Java Applet

Author:

ESCOT

Language:

English

Cost:

Does not require payment for use

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