Title: A Fish in Hand…
Grade Level: Eighth
Subjects: Math, Science, West Virginia Studies
Learner Outcomes: 1. Students will estimate
the size of a large population by applying the concepts of ratio and proportion
through the capture-recapture statistical procedure.
2. Students will enter data into a spreadsheet for analysis.
Time Frame: 2 45-minute classes
Materials: Each group will need:
Teacher Notes: Place students in groups of four. Be sure students have washed their hands if they are to eat the fish crackers when lab is complete. Students may need training on the spreadsheet software before the lab. (Microsoft Excel tutorial).
Procedures: Explain to students that since it is unrealistic for them to capture-recapture fish from the river, they will be utilizing a simulation.
Following the Instructions/Worksheet students will capture-recapture fish. Data will be entered into a spreadsheet. Totals will be used to set up a proportion to estimate the number of fish in their "river". Each group will prepare a report with graph prepared from spreadsheet.
Modifications: Students will be grouped to accommodate all ability and skill levels.
Enrichment activities: Graphing calculators could be used to complete a statistical report complete with graph on the data gathered.
Evaluation/Assessment: Completion of the Instructions/Worksheet and group report.
West Virginia Instructional Goals and Objectives:
Math: 8.9, 8.16, 8.27, 8.30, 8.46, 8.57
National Standards:
NCTM Standards: 1-5, 7-10
References: Lesson adapted from PBS Mathline Middle School Math Project Something Fishy Lesson.
Glencoe Mathematics: Applications and Connections Course 3 text
West Virginia Department of Natural Resources
Created by:
Darialouise Collins Kimberly Fowler Diane Stilwell
Other lessons within this unit:
Mary Ingles, Follow the
River
A Fish Out of Water
Relating the Related
Arts
Related lessons:
Go with the Flow
Rolling, Rolling Down
the River
Water U Graphs
Splish, Splash, I was
out on a Raft
Follow the River
What's that Smell?