Randomness and Experimental Probability

Objective

The purpose of this project is to investigate how experimental probability changes when the number of trials increases. You will design a spreadsheet experiment, collect data, analyse the results, and interpret the findings.

You must use Excel or LibreOffice Calc.

Task

Design a spreadsheet experiment that simulates the results of rolling a six-sided die many times.

Your spreadsheet should allow you to analyse how the distribution of results changes when the number of trials increases.

You must analyse at least four different experiment sizes.

Example sizes may include:

• a small number of trials

• a medium number of trials

• a large number of trials

• a very large number of trials

Required Elements

Your spreadsheet must include:

Raw Data

A dataset representing the outcomes of the experiment.

Summary Table

A table showing how often each outcome occurred.

Probability Comparison

A comparison between:

• experimental probability

• theoretical probability

Charts

At least two charts showing the distribution of results.

Personal Analysis and Conclusion

Write a short conclusion (200–250 words) explaining:

1. How your results changed when the number of trials increased.

2. Which experiment size produced the most balanced distribution of outcomes.

3. Which number appeared most often in your largest experiment.

4. Whether your results matched the theoretical probability and why.

5. One unexpected pattern or irregularity that appeared in your data.

Your explanation must refer to specific numbers from your own dataset.

Example:

In my experiment with 1000 trials, the number 4 appeared 186 times, which is slightly higher than the expected value.

Conclusions that do not refer to specific results from your own dataset will not receive full credit.

Submission

Upload your work to Microsoft Teams → Assignments.

Your submission must include:

• Spreadsheet file (.xlsx or .ods)

• Written conclusion (can be included in the spreadsheet or as a separate document)

Files should be clearly named:

Assessment Criteria

Your work will be evaluated based on:

• organisation and structure of the spreadsheet

• correctness of calculations

• clarity and quality of charts

• quality of interpretation and conclusions

• ability to support conclusions with your own data

• submission on time