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Lesson Description:
Rock, Paper, Scissors is an investigation into the mathematics of the popular game of the same name. Students play Rock,
Paper, Scissors (RPS), list possible outcomes, and analyze the theoretical and experimental probabilities in two versions
of the game. They interact with other students, collect data, analyze the fairness of games, and have the opportunity
to participate in the RPS Tournament.
Math Content:
Theoretical Probability, Experimental Probability, Collecting Data, Percents, Fair Game Analysis.
Time Required: 1-2
Class Periods
Rock, Paper, Scissors includes:
- 2 Rock, Paper, Scissors student worksheets
- 2 Rock, Paper, Scissors student worksheet Answer Keys
- 1 Rock, Paper, Scissors Tournament Bracket
- 2 Rock, Paper, Scissors Teacher Tips pages
- 1 Rock, Paper, Scissors Cover Sheet
8 pages in all!
Materials Needed:
None
Suggested Grade Level:
5th-8th
Teacher Testimonial: Rock, Paper, Scissors is a game that is well-known by students. However, they have probably never played
it as part of a class assignment. In RPS the students get to enjoy the movement, participation, and competition inherent
in this game while at the same time analyzing the mathematical probability behind two versions of the game. They compare
theoretical to experimental probability and judge the fairness of the games. RPS is truly a "hands-on" learning activity.
Enjoy your lesson!!
Teacher Feedback:
"I used the Rock, Paper, Scissors lesson
with my pre-algebra kids and they really enjoyed it. I took pictures for open house....I also used the Rock, Paper,
Scissors to demonstrate the difference between theoretical and experimental probability. I think it was that activity
that allowed my students to make the connection that allowed them to answer a related question on their test correctly."
-Linda Adrid, Suzanne Middle School, Walnut,
CA
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