Level 2 probability is about expressing chance as a number between 0 and 1 and using it to predict – how many faulty items in a batch of 500, whether a raffle is worth entering. This free worksheet covers the probability scale, calculating simple and ‘not’ probabilities, expected numbers and listing outcomes for two events.
Free to download, print and share for personal or classroom use. Answers included.
What’s in this worksheet
- Section A – Simple probability (12 marks)
- Section B – Expected results (11 marks)
- Section C – Two events (10 marks)
- Revise box with the rules and methods for the topic
- Worked answers for every question
Common mistakes on this topic
From our tutors’ marking and the most recent examiner reports – check your work against these:
- Writing a probability as ‘3 out of 12’ or ‘3 : 12’. It must be a fraction, decimal or percentage.
- Not simplifying, or giving a probability bigger than 1.
- Listing only some of the outcomes for two events. Use a systematic list or a grid so nothing is missed.
How to use it
- Print the worksheet (or work on screen) and attempt every question without looking at the answers. Give yourself a rough time limit – Level 2 exams are tight.
- Mark your work against the answer page. For maths, check the method as well as the final number; method marks are where most of the marks are.
- Read the ‘common mistakes’ notes below and check whether any of them happened to you. Then redo the questions you got wrong a day later.
Related free resources
- Functional Skills Maths Level 2: Mean, Median, Mode and Range Worksheet
- Two-Way Tables and Probability Worksheet – Functional Skills Maths Level 2
- Level 2 Maths Mini Practice Paper 1 – Functional Skills Maths Level 2
- All free Functional Skills Maths Level 2 resources
Frequently asked questions
How do you write a probability in Functional Skills maths?
As a fraction, a decimal or a percentage between 0 and 1 (0% and 100%). ‘Three out of twelve’ should be written 3/12 = ¼, 0.25 or 25%. Ratios such as 3 : 12 are not accepted.
What is an expected number in probability?
The probability multiplied by the number of trials. If the probability of a faulty bulb is 0.03 and there are 2,000 bulbs, you would expect 0.03 × 2,000 = 60 faulty ones. It is a prediction, not a guarantee.
How do I find the probability of two things happening together?
At Level 2, list all the possible combinations systematically (a sample space) and count how many match. Two coins give HH, HT, TH, TT, so two heads is 1 out of 4.
Want a tutor to mark your work? Not sure where you stand? Take the free 15-minute mini mock test. Ready to get qualified? Our live 10-week Functional Skills Level 2 Maths course runs in small groups with a mock exam included, and the 5-day revision course is there if your exam is close.