Predicting the Future
Resources for this lesson:
You will use your Algebra II Journal 
on this page.
> Glossary
> Calculator Resources
> Teacher Resources: Instructional Notes
How accurate do you think the lightning simulator in the last activity was? Your graphing calculator has a random number generator; have you ever wondered how truly random it is? There are many random number generators available online. Just how random is a programmed random number generator? What about other programmed simulators, such as ones that roll virtual number cubes or deal cards in a game?
Perform a statistical experiment to figure how truly random a virtual generator is. Let’s test this Rolling Number Cubes interactive. Its programmer claims that the interactive offers true randomness.
This interactive will have you roll two number cubes. Take a few practice rolls.
If the number cubes are truly random, you should see the sides of the number cubes show up an equal amount of times (approximately). In other words, if you roll 60 times, on each number cube you should see the “1” show up ten times, the “2” show up ten times, the “3” show up ten times, etc. Each side of each number cube should show up one-sixth of the time.
Algebra II Journal: Reflection 2
Respond to the following reflection questions in your Algebra II Journal and submit to your teacher.
- Form your hypothesis about whether the online number cubes roller is truly random. Be sure to reference the population parameter.
- Roll the interactive number cubes 100 times. Be sure to record the data in your journal.
- Based on your data, do you have enough evidence to support or reject your hypothesis? Be sure to use specific mathematical data and statistical references to support your claim.
