Today we began exploring the problem-solving strategy of estimation. We worked in small groups and were given a variety of materials including pasta, lollipop sticks, pompoms, and buttons. Within our groups, we first made an estimate of how many of each object we thought there were.

After sharing our estimates, we carefully counted each item to find the actual totals. We then compared our estimates with the real numbers to see who was closest. This helped us understand how estimation works and why it is useful in mathematics. Finally, we revealed which group or individual had the most accurate estimates.