CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.8a
The standard
Understand that, just as with simple events, the probability of a compound event is the fraction of outcomes in the sample space for which the compound event occurs.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics
What this standard means
Students need to find probabilities for events made of more than one condition, like rolling an even number and flipping heads. They must list or organize all possible outcomes, identify which outcomes match the event, and write the probability as a fraction of the full sample space.
Mastery looks like a clear sample space, no missing or repeated outcomes, and a correct count of favorable outcomes. Students often get stuck when they count only one step, mix up “and” with “or,” or assume all outcomes are equally likely without checking the situation.
Ways to teach it
- Have students use two coins and a number cube to create a complete outcome table, then find the probability of heads and an odd number.
- Ask students to explain the difference between “rolling a 3 or 4” and “rolling a 3 and 4” in one written sentence.
- Give a 3-question exit ticket where students list the sample space and circle the outcomes that match each compound event.
- Use a menu with 3 drinks and 4 snacks, then ask students for the probability of randomly choosing water and chips.
Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.8a
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Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.HSS-CP.B
Use the rules of probability to compute probabilities of compound events in a uniform probability model
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.8b
Represent sample spaces for compound events using methods such as organized lists, tables and tree diagrams. For an event described in everyday language (e.g., ...
- CCSS.Math.Content.HSS-CP.A.1
Describe events as subsets of a sample space (the set of outcomes) using characteristics (or categories) of the outcomes, or as unions, intersections, or comple...
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.8
Find probabilities of compound events using organized lists, tables, tree diagrams, and simulation.