| Activity Outcome | Estimating and calculating large whole numbers. Time. Solving a Simpler Problem First |
| MTS Set | MTS6
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| NATIONAL Curriculum | The Number System |
| Topics | Understand Whole Numbers
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| Keywords | Strategies, Large Numbers, Integers |
| Grouping | Whole class and independent. |
| Resources | Not applicable |
| Lesson Notes | - Ask students to estimate the number of keystrokes they may complete in 2 hours.
- Discuss strategies students used to make their estimates. Look for mathematical explanations such as: "I probably do 30 strokes in a minute so that would be 1800 in an hour. For 2 hours it would be a bit less than 4000 strokes." Ask students to read through the strategy steps for solving Investigation 1.
- Provide students with the opportunity to explain the steps in the strategy in their own words, i.e. they use mathematical statements such as "We multiply by 6 because there is 6 lots of 10 seconds in 1 minute. That way we can find out how many keystrokes I might do in 1 minute." Discuss an appropriate estimate for the number of keystrokes in 10 seconds and then direct students to carry out the working.
- Students compare their original estimate with their result after applying the strategy in Investigation 1. Focus attention on the strategy 'solving a simpler problem first' (estimating keystrokes for 10 seconds) to assist in solving a more complex problem (estimating keystrokes for 2 hours).
- Repeat the procedure above for Investigation 2.
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| Reflections | Ask: Can you think of similar situations where solving a simpler problem first would be a useful strategy? (e.g. How far could you jog in 24 hours?)
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| Internet Links | |
| Answers | Answers will vary |
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