Introduction to Counting and Permutations

Discrete Mathematics

Abstract

This activity will help students to distinguish between problems involving permutations and combinations.  The activity will then focus on generating and understanding the combination formula and then how to apply this formula in different situations. In Model 1, students will examine two different columns of activities.  One having permutations, the other, combinations.  Students will form the definition of a combination problem.  In Model 2, students will explore the difference between the permutation formula and combination formula.  In Models 3 and 4, students will apply the combination formula to a variety of problems.

This activity was developed with NSF support through IUSE-1626765. You may request access to this activity via the following link: IntroCS-POGIL Activity Writing Program. 

Level: Undergraduate
Setting: Classroom
Activity Type: Learning Cycle
Discipline: Computer Science
Course: Discrete Mathematics
Keywords: counting, permutations, product rule, sum rule