Probability

Scheme of work: GCSE Foundation: Year 9: Term 5: Probability

Prerequisite Knowledge

  • Compare and order fractions whose denominators are all multiples of the same number
  • identify, name and write equivalent fractions of a given fraction, represented visually, including tenths and hundredths
  • add and subtract fractions with the same denominator and denominators that are multiples of the same number

Success Criteria

  • Record, describe and analyse the frequency of outcomes of probability experiments using tables and frequency trees
  • apply ideas of randomness, fairness and equally likely events to calculate expected outcomes of multiple future experiments
  • Relate relative expected frequencies to theoretical probability, using appropriate language and the 0 – 1 probability scale
  • apply the property that the probabilities of an exhaustive set of outcomes sum to one; apply the property that the probabilities of an exhaustive set of mutually exclusive events sum to one
  • understand that empirical unbiased samples tend towards theoretical probability distributions, with increasing sample size
  • enumerate sets and combinations of sets systematically, using tables, grids, Venn diagrams and tree diagrams
  • construct theoretical possibility spaces for single and combined experiments with equally likely outcomes and use these to calculate theoretical probabilities
  • calculate the probability of independent and dependent combined events, including using tree diagrams and other representations, and know the underlying assumptions

Key Concepts

  • Use the probability scale and associated keywords to compare the likelihood of the occurrence of an event.
  • When writing probabilities as a fraction using the probability scale to show equivalences with the keywords
  • Discuss the effect of bias and sample size when comparing theoretical and experimental probabilities.
  • Use the random function on a calculator or spreadsheet to demonstrate simple randomisation.
  • When listing the outcomes of combined events ensure students use a logical and systematic method.
  • Branches on a probability tree have a sum of one as they are mutually exclusive.

Common Misconceptions

  • Writing probabilities as a ratio is a common misconception.
  • When creating Venn diagrams students often forget to place the remaining events outside the circles.
  • When listing permutations of combined events students often repeat events when they do not use a logical and systematic method.

Probability Resources

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