Lesson 1.

Random Variables
 Learning Competency

At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able

to do the following:

● Illustrate a random variable (discrete and

continuous) [M11/12SP-IIIa-1].
 Objectives

At the end of this lesson, the learners should be able to

do the following:

● Define a random variable.

● Represent real-life situations using random

variables.

● Determine the possible values of a random

variable.
Variables may
appear random.

The word “random”

describes
something that is
without definite
aim, direction, rule,
or method.
In statistics, when
we say random, it
has something to
do with probability
or chances.
 Essential Questions

● How does a random variable differ from an algebraic

variable?

● What are some real-life situations that can be represented

as random variables?
 Learn about It!

Random Experiment

A random experiment is an experiment that can be repeated

numerous times under the same conditions. The results must
be independent of one another.

Example:
Tossing a coin is a random experiment.
 Learn about It!

Outcome

An outcome is the result of a random experiment.

Example:
The possible outcomes of tossing a coin are head and tail.
 Learn about It!

Sample Space

A sample space ­is the set of possible outcomes of a random

experiment; denoted by a capital letter, usually .

Example:
The sample space of tossing a coin is .
 Learn about It!

Random Variables

A random variable is a function that associates a numerical

value to every outcome of a random experiment; denoted by a
capital letter, usually .

The domain is the sample space, and the range is some set of
real numbers.
 Learn about It!

Random Variables

Example:
Suppose represents the number of heads that can appear in
tossing a coin. The possible values of the random variable are
0 and 1.
 Try
Let’sit!Practice

Example 1: Let be a random variable that denotes the result

of rolling a die. What are the possible values of ?
 Solution to Let’s Practice

Example 1: Let be a random variable that denotes the result

of rolling a die. What are the possible values of ?

Solution:
The sample space of rolling a die is Thus, the possible values
of are and .
 Key Points

● A random experiment is an experiment that can be

repeated numerous times under the same conditions. The
results must be independent of one another.

● An outcome is the result of a random experiment.

● A sample space is a set of possible outcomes of a

random experiment; denoted by a capital letter, usually .
 Key Points

● A random variable is a function that associates a

numerical value to every outcome of a random
experiment; denoted by a capital letter, usually .
 Bibliography

Belecina, Rene R. et al. Statistics and Probability. Quezon City: Rex Book Store Inc., 2017.

Kenton, Will. “Random Variable Definition.” Investopedia. Retrieved 18 June 2019 from
http://bit.ly/2Zm6aO0

Khan, Salman. “Random variables.” Khan Academy. Retrieved 18 June 2019 from https://bit.ly/2Rnzv6t

Pierce, Rod. “Random Variables.” Math Is Fun. Retrieved June 18, 2019 from http://bit.ly/2XeWg3k