Math Content Standard A: Content of Math

Key Element 3. Estimation and Computation

A student who meets the content standard should perform basic arithmetic functions, make reasoned estimates and select and use appropriate methods or tools for computation or estimation including mental arithmetic, paper and pencil, a calculator, and a computer.

Estimation and Computation for All

Conceptual development and the understanding of basic number facts are fundamental to mathematics. This foundation helps students to understand the relationships of operations using concrete models and to develop algorithms. Estimation, at first is an introductory experience and eventually becomes the self-checking experience for measurements and calculation. In many contexts it is more appropriate to estimate than to do an exact computation to see structural relationships that carry through mathematical strands, i.e. number theory and algebra. Students should be able to recognize such situations and apply the most appropriate skills and concepts to the job.

Big Concepts in Estimation and Computation

The meaning of addition and subtraction
Place value and trading
Measurement as varying degrees of estimation
Estimation with computation; reasonableness; estimation strategies
The basic mathematical facts
Matrices representing repetitive addition
Range of tolerance