Project Description
Throughout the course of this project, we explored the basics of probability through programming. We created probability-based video games, which we shared with the public through an exhibition, as well as gaining general knowledge about probability.
Overview
During this project, we studied probability through many hands-on exercises. We gathered data using dice rolls and coin flips, and used that information to solve problems and further our knowledge. We used multiple visuals to organize and analyze our data, such as two-way tables, area diagrams, and tree diagrams. In addition to learning and practicing general probability concepts, our main product was our game. We created our games on StarLogo Nova, a website that allows you to program using a "drag and drop" style. Our first benchmark for this project was a basic write-up of our initial plans for the game. This write-up included the name of our game, what inspired us to make it, and the objective. The second benchmark was essentially a more detailed description of the game, with the addition of the proposed probability analysis. Our next benchmark was actually programming our game, which took the most time and ended up being shown at our exhibition. Using our knowledge of solving probability problems, we completed the last benchmark- the probability analysis. I chose to look into the probability of eight cars all facing the same way when 'set-up' is pushed at the beginning of the game, which then led to generalizing, and figuring out the probability of n cars all facing the same way,
Game Instructions
My game, "Tail Trail," begins when the player hits the 'set-up' button. When this button is pressed, the cars, dog, fire hydrant, and background will appear. To start playing the game, the player has to press the 'start' button. The objective of the game is for the player, a dog, to reach the fire hydrant on the other side of a busy street. The cars are placed randomly, and once start is pressed, begin to move forward. If the dog touches a car, then it will be sent back to the starting point and five points will be deducted from the score box. If the dog makes it to the fire hydrant, then it will still be sent back to the starting point and 15 points will be added. The player uses the four arrow keys to maneuver the dog and reach the end safely.
Reflection
First off, I learned a lot from this probability unit. In previous grades, I'd only been taught the very basics of probability, and definitely not as in-depth as in this project. I think my biggest challenge going into this project was the programming aspect, as I'd never programmed before and was worried about being able to create a quality game that would be both engaging and a good presentation of my learning. Once I got into the groove of creating my game, I learned that I'm surprisingly rather good at programming, at least on StarLogo Nova, and I'm incredibly proud of the work that I produced. I think that a strength for me in this project was my ability to learn quickly, especially since we were always learning new content and exploring new topics within probability. I think that one Habit of a Mathematician that I really grew in during this project was "Look for Patterns." Finding patterns within probability really assisted me in solving problems later on, and also helped me to generalize concepts later on. Another Habit of a Mathematician that I feel like this project really helped me grow in is "Stay Organized." I like to think of myself as a very organized person, especially when it comes to my math work, so this is a habit that I really got to exercise during this project. I'm a very visual learner, so I loved using all of the tables and diagrams, and learning all the ways to organize probability. I believe that I not only learned a lot of content during this project, but developed skills that will help me throughout the rest of high school.