CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.8c

Math7th GradeInvestigate chance processes and develop, use, and evaluate probability models.

The standard

Design and use a simulation to generate frequencies for compound events.

Common Core State Standards for Mathematics

What this standard means

Students need to model multi-step chance situations when listing outcomes is hard or slow. They should choose a fair random tool, like dice, cards, spinners, or random digits, assign outcomes to match given probabilities, run many trials, and use the results to estimate a probability.

Mastery looks like a clear simulation plan, accurate trial recording, and a reasonable conclusion based on relative frequency. Students often get stuck matching the random tool to the given probability, defining one trial, or stopping too soon and trusting a small sample.

Ways to teach it

  • Have pairs simulate blood donors with random digits, using 0 to 3 for type A, and record trials until the first A appears.
  • Ask students to write: What counts as one trial in this simulation, and why does that choice matter?
  • Give students a flawed simulation plan and ask them to identify one error and fix it in two minutes.
  • Connect to quality control by simulating how many light bulbs a store tests before finding a defective one.

Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.8c

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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.7.SP.C.8

    Find probabilities of compound events using organized lists, tables, tree diagrams, and simulation.

  • CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.7b

    Develop a probability model (which may not be uniform) by observing frequencies in data generated from a chance process.

Standard text verified against corestandards.org on July 10, 2026.

Page updated July 10, 2026.

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