Chance Spinner Experiment (2)

Overview:

A hands-on activity where students conduct a chance experiment using a spinner to explore the likelihood of various outcomes. Designed for year 4 and 5 students.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand and apply the concept of probability in real-life scenarios.
• Predict the likelihood of events and compare predictions with actual results.
• Develop critical thinking skills by analysing and interpreting experimental data.

How the Activity Works:

A spinner image is provided at the top of the page, and students begin by answering questions about the likelihood of landing on each colour. They then make predictions, such as "I predict that after 10 spins, the spinner will land on yellow 3 times." Students conduct the experiment by placing a paper clip under a pencil in the centre of the circle and flicking the spinner 10 times. They record the results in a table and reflect on how the results compare to their predictions. Following this, students test again, conducting another set of 10 spins and analysing whether the results are similar or different. They are encouraged to think about why the results might vary. Finally, students are asked whether the results will be the same every time the experiment is conducted and predict the outcomes if the spinner were spun 100 times. This practical experiment encourages students to engage with probability concepts and evaluate the variability in chance events.