In my mind, Rock, Paper, Scissors (RPS from here on out), is such a powerful way to decide something between two people. I think of all the times it decided who got to ride shotgun, who got the last piece of pizza, who got to go first, etc. We're talking a huge playground staple (at least I think it still is). I have no idea if the two kids were deciding something or just playing RPS for fun. It doesn't matter! I wanted to know who would win? Were they playing straight up to one? Were they playing the best 2 out of three? Who has the advantage: rock, paper, or scissors? What are the chances of a tie? A lesson was born... I have to get it down on paper or make a digital note of it somewhere. Imagine the class activity that could result from this... that will be a future post.
I'll admit, I was proud of this Act 1. I thought I had a slam dunk. Feedback from some tweeps said they preferred the scoreboard (thank you twitter and online colleagues). As you can see only 7 people have viewed it on 101qs.com so far and 3 of them skipped it. Usually those first 7 people are the regular 101qs users who post first. I admire them. I dig their attentiveness. I could list them, but I won't. They're awesome!
What do you think?
RPS,
756
I did an experiment with this in class a few years ago. Not sure why I stopped. I think it's interesting to test the theoretical vs experimental out on this one. It's not as simple as one might think. Do some people win more often than others? Why? Do some people prefer one of the three? Does that change as the game progresses based on what the other person is doing? Challenging (and worthwhile) questions for middle school students.
ReplyDeleteI think I initially ditched this activity because of the poor record keeping (which was more my fault than the students). This would be a good three person activity - two RPS players and one recorder.
I'm right there with you on the theoretical v. experimental on this one. I love that you've done this with your students, making me want to test it out in my class even more now. I totally envision, as you say, "challenging and worthwhile questions" and discussions in class. I agree with the three person activity and the roles. An objective view is imperative and that's what I was trying to create with the video.
DeleteCan you believe I almost blogged about my preferred choice in RPS? I caught myself! That was close. One never knows when they might be faced with an RPS match to determine some pivotal decision. And to think I almost gave away my go-to.
I do love this RPS Act 1! I need to head over to 101qs.com, haven't been there lately. Who was the other person playing RPS with you in video? :)
ReplyDeleteI know someone is really happy to see the Comments section added. Without it, we'd think he couldn't count past 6. Okay, I'll leave now. (I'm nicer in person.)
I'm sure you are nicer in person, but niceties are overrated at times. So are numbers past 6, right? Yea, who was the mystery guest in this Act? I can't wait to do this one in the classroom!
DeleteRPS is awesome! I don't think that people would skip this 101qs because they didn't find it interesting, but rather because they may already do it in class. My colleagues and I have been doing a RPS activity for several years in 7th grade where the kids predict and then record stats for both who won and what instrument won in each of 30 rounds, figure ratios and percentages of whichever stats interest them and then collect classroom data and begin the questions/discussion. This year, I'll try starting with your Act 1 instead of my worksheet and see where it leads us. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteChris F
Thanks Chris! Would you mind sharing any materials, handouts, or lesson plans you have found successful with this? Hit me up on twitter @mr_stadel or email.
DeleteI'd appreciate it!
Andrew you need to read this article at Cracked.com. I think you will dig it.
ReplyDeleteI dig it!. Thanks Timon.
Deletenot sure where you're headed with subsequent acts, but have you heard about this Japanese RPS robot? It will beat you 100% of the time! http://www.slate.com/blogs/future_tense/2012/06/27/rock_paper_scissors_robot_from_ishikawa_oku_laboratory_wins_100_percent_of_the_time_video_.html
ReplyDeleteSince I most likely will have to wait until the new school year to proceed with Acts 2 and 3, I am merely brainstorming at this point. I figured I'd have students do many rounds in the classroom. Make observations, look for patterns, etc. all in the name of making strong predictions for Act 3. Cheat bots make me laugh and I will gladly use your link as part of the lesson. I will post Act 3 soon. Timon and Nathan have sent me seom strong ideas and/or links I will follow up with. There will be an RSP follow up. Thanks Matt!
DeleteNothing beats rock!
ReplyDeleteCosmo Kramer
That sounds a lot like Bart Simpson too! Good one!
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