Probability

  • Connect Three
    problem

    Connect three

    Age
    11 to 16
    Challenge level
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    In this game the winner is the first to complete a row of three. Are some squares easier to land on than others?

  • Very old man
    problem

    Very old man

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Is the age of this very old man statistically believable?
  • It's a Tie
    problem

    It's a tie

    Age
    7 to 11
    Challenge level
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    Kaia is sure that her father has worn a particular tie twice a week in at least five of the last ten weeks, but her father disagrees. Who do you think is right?
  • Taking Chances
    problem

    Taking chances

    Age
    11 to 14
    Challenge level
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    This article, for students and teachers, is mainly about probability, the mathematical way of looking at random chance and is a shorter version of Taking Chances Extended.
  • Bet you a Million
    problem

    Bet you a million

    Age
    14 to 16
    Challenge level
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    Heads or Tails - the prize doubles until you win it. How much would you pay to play?
  • The Birthday Bet
    problem

    The birthday bet

    Age
    14 to 16
    Challenge level
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    The next ten people coming into a store will be asked their birthday. If the prize is £20, would you bet £1 that two of these ten people will have the same birthday ?
  • The Better Choice
    problem

    The better choice

    Age
    14 to 16
    Challenge level
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    Here are two games you can play. Which offers the better chance of winning?
  • Cosy corner
    problem

    Cosy corner

    Age
    11 to 14
    Challenge level
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    Six balls are shaken. You win if at least one red ball ends in a corner. What is the probability of winning?
  • Two's company
    problem

    Two's company

    Age
    11 to 14
    Challenge level
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    Seven balls are shaken. You win if the two blue balls end up touching. What is the probability of winning?
  • Domino Pick
    problem

    Domino pick

    Age
    5 to 7
    Challenge level
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    Are these domino games fair? Can you explain why or why not?