

Let X = the time it takes a lab rat to run one maze and Y = the time it takes the same rat to run a different maze. This is a short simulation demo I like to do with students to show (not prove) that variances add even when the random variables are subtracted, but only if they're independent. The notation X ~ N( µ,σ) used in this document indicates that X is a random variable having a normal distribution with mean µ and standard deviation σ. On the TI-83 and TI-84 calculators, the random-number-generating functions are located under the math → prb menu. Of course, the activities may be done with any calculator or computer having basic random-number-generating functions. The syntax throughout this article is that of the TI-83 or TI-84, the calculator models that are probably the most widely used in statistics classrooms. As an activity progresses, teachers should make sure that the students understand what the calculator is doing before guiding the discussion toward more abstract statistical principles. While some simulations are best done incorporating tangible objects, such as tokens drawn from a bag, these simulations are designed for the graphing calculator alone.

AP World Language and Cultures Webinars.AP History and Social Sciences Webinars.

AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award.

