Authentic Learning Task (ALT) #3: Lottery Win Probability

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Overview

This ALT is divided into two activities, Part A and Part B. In Part A, you are introduced to two concepts: (1) probability and the uniform distribution (by rolling dice); and (2) collecting and analyzing data as an example of a uniform probability distribution. In Part B, you tally the frequencies of the digits for at least 30 days of a lottery game. In each activity, you graph the data to show the characteristic graph of the uniform distribution: a horizontal line, which represents the equal likelihood of outcomes across the outcomes of the variables.

After completing this ALT, you should be able to demonstrate the following competencies:

• Create and interpret exponential, uniform, and normal distributions (Comp. 1).
• Apply the concept of random variables to generate and interpret probability distributions, including uniform, normal, and exponential (Comp. 2).
• Construct a histogram representing a uniform distribution; determine the validity of "systems" to predict random events (Comp. 3).

Materials and Equipment
No materials or equipment are needed to complete this ALT.

Safety and Disposal
No special safety or disposal procedures are required.

Pre-Activity

To prepare for the activity:

In your team, perform the following steps to complete the activity:

1. Compete Data Sheet: Lottery Win Capability, Part A, Data Sheet: Lottery Win Capability, Part B, and Data Sheet: Lottery Win Probability Evaluation.

Post-Activity

Your team should now post its results from the activity to the Discussion Board.

Assignment
There are no instructions to prepare for ALT #4: How Changing Parameters Affect Graph Location and Shape.

Assessment
Your facilitator may use Assessment Sheet: Lottery Win Probability to evaluate your results from the activity and your posting to the Discussion Board.

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