Probability (the likelihood that an event will happen) is a mathematical concept that is introduced in kindergarten and further explored in subsequent years of school. We use probability every day when we describe events with words such as “definitely,” “probably,” “probably not,” and “impossible.” In our learning groups, we brainstormed examples of each term. It is certain that the sun will rise tomorrow, and that a magnet will attract a paperclip. It is likely that someone in our class will be absent tomorrow, that at least one of our classmates has a loose tooth, and that we will see a deer in the forest. It is unlikely that we will see a shooting star tonight, or go to the beach tomorrow. It is impossible that we will meet a dinosaur in the forest, or grow wings and fly to the moon. The children were fantastic at using their previous knowledge and experiences to predict the likelihood of something occurring in the future!
We spent a few days exploring probability through games. We discussed the likelihood of a dice or spinner landing on the number three, and the probability of choosing a red card out of a deck of 52 cards. We put 10 blue cubes and one orange cube in a bag and asked the children to describe the likelihood of pulling out a blue or orange cube without looking. We played a coin-tossing game where we predicted and recorded in a table how many times a toonie would land on the queen or the polar bear after 12 tosses. Using facts we already know and the math skills we have already learned, we estimated that the coin would land on each side six times. This is a great prediction, and the children had a clear understanding that it was not certain that the toonie would land precisely “heads” up half the time and “tails” up half the time. It is possible (but unlikely) that all 12 coin tosses could have landed on "tails." Stuart J. Murphy’s storybook, Probably Pistachio, was an excellent tool for fostering a link between literature and mathematical ideas. During the course of one very bad day, the main character, Jack, uses probability to predict what will be packed in his lunch, whether he’ll be placed on the same soccer team as his best friend, and if his mom will serve his favourite ice cream for dessert. The book uses mathematical terminology and contains illustrations, charts, and graphs that explain probability. Learning how to make informed predictions helps children analyze data in order to make wise decisions. This week, we had two veterinarians visit our class. They each practise very different aspects of veterinary medicine, and shared information about their jobs. Brian (Alexandra’s dad) is a Wildlife Pathologist. Part of his job involves examining animal remains to determine a cause of death. Brian brought an assortment of skulls with him. Ranging in size from a tiny turtle to a massive moose, the skulls (and how Brian came to acquire them) were of great interest to the students. By examining the teeth and the placement of the eyes, the children were able to predict whether the skull belonged to a predator or a prey species.
Meredith (Ryan’s mom) practises small animal medicine at a local veterinary clinic. She brought an assortment of animal x-rays, and invited the students to determine what might have made the animal seek treatment. Several animals had swallowed objects they shouldn’t have, and we could clearly see the outline of a toy car, an action figure, and even a spoon! On another x-ray, we could see the forms of several tiny kittens inside their pregnant mother. Meredith demonstrated how she would apply sutures to close a surgical incision. She brought each student a kit containing a hair net, face mask, latex gloves, a syringe, and bandages so that we could be vets-in-training. We are so appreciative of visitors to our classroom! Your job or special skills are likely much more interesting than you realize! Although the end of the school year is upon us, please let us know if you would be willing to visit our class in the fall. Wednesday we will have two veterinarians visiting the class. Please send your child to school with a stuffed animal tomorrow. We will have the opportunity to do some bandaging and be vets-in-training!
Friday is our big end of year celebration picnic! Please bring a picnic lunch for you and your family, along with a picnic blanket and outdoor play equipment (if you'd like). This is a relaxing event to get together and celebrate a year of success! 1:30 pm start time - Room One. We will move to the gym if it’s raining. Can't wait to see you there!!!! Please remember to send your child to school with a hat and sunscreen (applied first at home). Have a wonderful day! |
Tosh TiplerUGDSB Kindergarten Teacher Categories |