Activity Overview
It is believed that an unusually high occurrence of cancer in a small area may represent a "cancer cluster." Because this is rare, it is more likely to be a case of "Texas Sharpshooting." For example, suppose a person randomly shoots a gun several times at the side of a barn and draws a circle around the holes that are closest to each other. Since they fit in a 'cluster,' the person declares himself to be a Texas Sharpshooter.
Students will examine and simulate Texas Sharpshooting.
Before the Activity
Download the attached PDF and look over the Teacher Page.
During the Activity
Discuss the materials from the Student Page with your class. Share the attached SHARP calculator program for students to check their work.
After the Activity
Encourage students to explore web sites and questions from the Extensions Page.