Rock Around the Clock
Probability
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Objective
Students will use the Monte Carlo method to determine a reasonable number of packs of
gum that need to be purchased to win a complete set of prizes.
Overview of the Lesson
Students are introduced to the problem of determining a reasonable number of packs of
gum they would have to purchase in order to obtain all 6 cards containing pictures of
famous entertainers, past and present. Students simulate this problem by selecting disks
numbered 1-6. The outcome of each draw is recorded. In groups, students are given
spinners, cups and disks, and number cubes and told to choose any simulation they wish
to start with, but will rotate through all of them eventually. Results are recorded on
different colored Post Its. The Post It results are then placed on a number line. Students
discuss the overall results and describe how they determined a reasonable number of packs
of gum to be purchased. Variances in the result due to the type of simulation used is
discussed and the idea of fair vs. unfair is explored.
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