Statistics: Something Fishy
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PBS
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In this math lesson, learners apply the concepts of ratio and proportion to the capture-recapture statistical procedure. Learners are given containers (the bay) and an unknown number of fish-shaped cheese crackers to use in simulating the capture-recapture method. Learners net the fish-shaped cheese crackers and substitute fish-shaped pretzels to simulate tagged fish. Learners then take samples and record the number of tagged fish and the total number of fish. After several samples are taken, results from each group are recorded. Learners apply their knowledge of proportion to arrive at the total fish population. This activity relates to the decline in fish populations in the Chesapeake Bay.
- Under 5 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $5 - $10 per group of students
- Ages 11 - 14
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- 1 large container
- 300-350 fish-shaped cheese crackers
- 30-40 fish-shaped pretzel crackers
- 1 small aquarium fish net
- 1 plate
Subjects
- Life Sciences
- Ecology
- Ecosystems
- Populations
- Ecology
- Mathematics
- Data Analysis and Probability
- Data Analysis
- Data Collection
- Data Representation
- Measurement
- Units of Measurement
- Size and Scale
- Number and Operations
- Fractions
- Problem Solving
- Reasoning and Proof
- Representation
- Data Analysis and Probability
Informal Categories
- Animals
- Food and Cooking
- Nature and Environment
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics:
- CCSS.Math.Content.6.RP.A.1: Understand the concept of a ratio and use ratio language to describe a ratio relationship between two quantities.(more info about this benchmark)
- CCSS.Math.Content.6.SP.A.1: Recognize a statistical question as one that anticipates variability in the data related to the question and accounts for it in the answers.(more info about this benchmark)
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.A.1: Understand that statistics can be used to gain information about a population by examining a sample of the population; generalizations about a population from a sample are valid only if the sample is representative of that population. Understand that random sampling tends to produce representative samples and support valid inferences.(more info about this benchmark)
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.SP.A.2: Use data from a random sample to draw inferences about a population with an unknown characteristic of interest. Generate multiple samples (or simulated samples) of the same size to gauge the variation in estimates or predictions.(more info about this benchmark)
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All Rights Reserved, PBS, ©2012
Funding Source:
- US Department of Education
