Virginia SOL 5.PS.3
SOL Standard (Knowledge and Skills Cluster)
The student will determine the probability of an outcome by constructing a model of a sample space and using the Fundamental (Basic) Counting Principle.
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics
Cluster contents
Knowledge and Skills in This Standard
5.PS.3 is a Standards of Learning standard. These are the knowledge and skills expectations under it.
Teacher's field guide
What This Cluster Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students create a tree diagram, organized list, or chart showing all possible outcomes for a situation with no more than 24 outcomes. They multiply the number of choices at each stage to find the total. For equally likely outcomes, they compare favorable outcomes with the total to find probability.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student records every possible outcome once in a clear tree, list, or chart. They multiply the number of choices at each stage to confirm the total. They divide favorable outcomes by total equally likely outcomes and simplify the probability.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may add the numbers of choices instead of multiplying them. They may skip combinations, list duplicates, or use the favorable outcomes as the denominator. Some assume outcomes are equally likely when the model does not support that assumption.
How to Assess It
- Give students a menu with three sandwiches, two sides, and two drinks. Ask them to show all meals, write a multiplication equation, and find the probability of choosing the one vegetarian sandwich.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs three shirt cards and two pants cards; students build every outfit, record a chart, and find the probability of choosing stripes.
Ask, “How do your tree diagram and multiplication equation show the same total?” Students write two sentences and cite one matching branch.
Play Sample Space Sprint: partners draw a card naming two or three choices, then race to list outcomes without repeats or omissions.
Use a cafeteria menu with two entrées, three sides, and two drinks; students count meals and find the probability of selecting fruit.
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Printable 5.PS.3 Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 5.PS.3, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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