Key Learnings for Estimation

KEY LEARNINGS: (Benchmarks)	PERFORMANCE ACTIVITIES: (Examples)
1. Explores estimation strategies using manipulatives;	1. Students estimate a variety of materials in several sized containers. (Comparison)
2. Checks reasonableness of initial estimate and revises as appropriate;	2. Students write initial estimate, count 1/2 of items in container and then keep or modify original estimate. (Decision Making)
3. Uses estimation in working with quantities, measurement, computation, and problem solving.	3. Students, prior to actual work, initiate an estimation activity coinciding with skill or concept being developed. (Decision Making)

KEY LEARNINGS: (Benchmarks)	PERFORMANCE ACTIVITIES: (Examples)
1. Explores estimation strategies;	1. Students use rounding to tens and hundreds to estimate an answer. (Decision Making)
2. Recognizes when an estimate is appropriate;	2. Students discuss when estimation is preferable and acceptable over actual result. (Error Analysis)
3. Determines the reasonableness of results;	3. Students compare/contrast estimation with correct response. (Comparison)
4. Applies estimation in working with quantities, measurement, computation and problem solving.	4. Students initiate an estimation activity coinciding with skill or concept being developed. (Decision Making)

Level 3: Grades 6-8

KEY LEARNINGS: (Benchmarks)	PERFORMANCE ACTIVITIES: (Examples)
1. Explores estimation strategies;	1. Students guess and check to estimate days until vacation. (Problem Solving)
2. Recognizes when an estimate is appropriate;	2. Students develop a list of when estimating may be appropriate. Be prepared to provide your rationale. (Constructing Support)
3. Determines the reasonableness of results;	3. You and a friend disagree over an estimate. Can you understand and explain the opposing view? (Analyzing Perspectives)
4. Applies estimation in working with quantities, measurement, computation and problem solving;	4. How many gallons of water does your house use in an average day? How might this amount change if the new pool is built? (Problem Solving)
5. Develops, analyzes, and explains techniques for estimation.	5. Students explain why they used the estimation strategy of rounding to mentally add in the store. (Decision Making)

Level 4: Grades 9-12

KEY LEARNINGS: (Benchmarks)	PERFORMANCE ACTIVITIES: (Examples)
1. Explores estimation strategies;	1. N/A
2. Recognizes when an estimate is appropriate;	2. Students investigate the use of estimation in occupations and share what determines an appropriate level (e.g. scientist, surgeon, etc.). (Investigation)
3. Determines the reasonableness of results;	3. N/A
4. Applies estimation in working with quantities, measurement, computation and problem solving;	4. Students estimate the perimeter and area of a rectangle that measures 7 7/8" by 4 1/2". (Problem Solving)
5. Checks the validity of any technological solutions using estimation.	5. N/A