- Definition
Likelihood is simply how probable it is that something will happen, like saying it's "likely" to rain or "impossible" to fly to the moon without a rocket.
If a bag has nine red blocks and one blue block, it is likely you will pull out a red block.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Likelihood is like reaching into a snack bag with mostly pretzels and only a few crackers; it's more likely you'll pull out a pretzel.
Ask your child: What is something that is certain to happen today?
Common mix-up: Kids may think 'likely' means something is guaranteed to happen. Likelihood describes a range of chances, from impossible to certain, with many possibilities in between.
Examples
- It is certain that you will have a birthday this year.
- It is impossible for a dog to meow like a cat.
- It is unlikely to snow on a hot, sunny day.
likelihood is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
+1 more mention across the curriculum
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
