STEM Sims: The Multicolored Dice

Introduction

As mentioned in our prior overview of STEM Sims [http://nstacommunities.org/blog/2017/02/06/stem-sims-interactive-simulations-for-the-stem-classroom/], this interactive software package provides over 100 simulations of laboratory experiments and engineering design products for the STEM classroom. The simulation featured here is called “The Multicolored Dice,”  which we found to be an excellent simulation for mathematics applications related to the concept of probability. Subsequently, students predict which combinations are most likely to occur and then evaluate their hypotheses by rolling the dice to generate combinations of numerical values for predicting the color combinations of multicolored dice. As with numerical dice, where the probability of one dice is 1/6 and the probability of two dice being the same particular number is 1/6 x 1/6 = 1/36. … There are six different possible numbers, so that would be 6/36 or 1/6. Hence, the same rules apply to color combination of dice. The Multicolored Dice is aligned with national (NGSS) standards (MS-ETS1.B – Developing Possible Solutions) and is compatible with state standards as well.

The simulation provides students with a brochure, a pre-assessment quiz , and introductory information about probability (see below). Another reason to consider using this activity is that it reinforces the connection between mathematics content and science content with and emphasis on the application of probability and statistics. Hence, this simulation enables science teachers introduce mathematics concepts that apply to scientific inquiry with probability as a foundation for prediction and analysis. Given the emphasis of integrating mathematics and science in the schools today, this simulation is an excellent opportunity to integrate concepts of mathematics that can help students to do science.

Brochure: https://stemsims.com/content/brochures/multicolored-dice-brochure.pdf?version=2017-01-19

STEM Sims provides four separate lesson plans for this simulation (see links below). These lesson plans are very well-organized and fit the learning objectives and assess learning outcomes. As an example, we have included a Sample Assessment, which is a multiple-choice quiz that includes an answer guide for each lesson.

Sample Assessment

Sample Lessons

Lesson 1: https://stemsims.com/content/lessons/multicolored-dice-lesson-1.pdf?version=2017-01-10

Lesson 2: https://stemsims.com/content/lessons/multicolored-dice-lesson-2.pdf?version=2017-01-10

Lesson 3: https://stemsims.com/content/lessons/multicolored-dice-lesson-3.pdf?version=2017-01-10

Lesson 4: https://stemsims.com/content/lessons/multicolored-dice-lesson-4.pdf?version=2017-01-10

Conclusion

The Multicolored Dice offers teachers an opportunity to integrate mathematics and scientific concepts into a variety of subjects.  Undoubtedly, this simulation will motivate students to formulate questions that will enrich their understanding of science.  Consider signing-up for a free trial of this simulation to determine where this instructive learning tool fits into your classroom learning environment.

For a free trial, visit https://stemsims.com/account/sign-up

Recommended System Qualifications:

• Operating system: Windows XP or Mac OS X 10.7
• Browser: Chrome 40, Firefox 35, Internet Explorer 11, or Safari 7
• Java 7, Flash Player 13

Single classroom subscription: $169 for a 365-day subscription and includes access for 30 students and 100 simulations.

Product Site: https://stemsims.com/

Edwin P. Christmann is a professor and chairman of the secondary education department and graduate coordinator of the mathematics and science teaching program at Slippery Rock University in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania. Anthony Balos is a graduate student and a research assistant in the secondary education program at Slippery Rock University in Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania