CCSS.Math.Content.HSS-CP.B
The standard
Use the rules of probability to compute probabilities of compound events in a uniform probability model
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · High School — Statistics and Probability
What this standard means
Students need to find probabilities for events that combine more than one condition, using organized counting, tables, tree diagrams, Venn diagrams, and formulas. They should know when to add probabilities, when to multiply, and how to handle overlap so outcomes are not counted twice.
Mastery looks like choosing the right rule without being told, defining the sample space clearly, and explaining each step. Students often mix up “and” and “or,” forget to subtract overlap, or assume events are independent when they are not. Uniform models help because each outcome has the same chance, but students still need careful counting.
Ways to teach it
- Have students draw two cards from a small deck, list all ordered outcomes, then calculate probabilities for pairs like red and face card.
- Ask students to explain in writing how “A or B” differs from “A and B” using a Venn diagram example.
- Give a four-question exit ticket with one union, one intersection, one complement, and one conditional probability problem.
- Use a school lunch survey table to calculate the probability a student chose pizza, salad, both, or neither.
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Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.8a
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 oc...
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.7a
Develop a uniform probability model by assigning equal probability to all outcomes, and use the model to determine probabilities of events.
- CCSS.Math.Content.HSS-CP.B.9
(+) Use permutations and combinations to compute probabilities of compound events and solve problems.
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.C.8
Find probabilities of compound events using organized lists, tables, tree diagrams, and simulation.