Math Forum: Probability and the Problem of Points
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- Aug 17 2010 10:19 PM
Rita Nutsch
This resource was matched by a member of the Brokers of Expertise Standards Matching Team.
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- Original Source:Illuminations
Conditions of Use:None Specified
Description
This resource from Math Forum is a part of the a set of activities addressing Famous Problems in the History of Mathematics. The 'Problem of Points' addresses a famous problem from the 17th century stated as follows, 'Two equally skilled players are interrupted while playing a game of chance for a certain amount of money. Given the score of the game at that point, how should the stakes be divided?' Analyses of this problem helped lead to the rigorous development of probability theory in the 17th century. This resource uses a fictional account of an exchange between two French mathematicians (Pascal and Fermat) who pioneered work in this area to introduce the problem and its eventual solution. A generalization of the solution is presented, as are several practice problems (with solutions). Teachers may find this an interesting example to use in introducing probability theory, and the historical context may add further instructional interest. Less
Learning Registry Activity
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Topics and Grades
Grade: 9 to 12
Topics: Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability, Probability, Calculus, Mathematics
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Resource Type/Classification:
- Reference Materials
Tool for: Administrators, Teachers, Parents
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Instructional Strategy
Grouping: Heterogeneous
Teaching Method: Discussions