Addition and subtraction - Estimate numbers - Planning

In Year 3, during the Autumn term's fifth week of Addition and Subtraction, the focus is on estimating answers. This crucial mathematical skill is introduced before formal rounding is taught in Year 4. The concept of 'near numbers' is used to help children understand how to make sensible estimates. Estimation is discussed in the context of its importance in everyday situations, such as shopping or counting objects. The lesson encourages children to estimate before calculating exact answers, aiding them in checking their work. They engage in Partner Talk to explore what estimation means and when it might be used in real life. The children are then introduced to a definition of estimation—making a reasonable guess based on existing knowledge—and are given practical examples to illustrate its use.

The lesson proceeds with activities linking back to previous learning on place value, where children are asked to place numbers on a number line and estimate using a helpful stem sentence. They learn to identify the previous and next multiples of 100 to determine which a number is closest to, reinforcing their understanding of place value. Through group work and reasoning activities, the children discuss and apply their knowledge of estimation, using stem sentences as prompts for their thoughts. Independent work is carried out using differentiated worksheets, which cater to varying levels of understanding. Key questions prompt the children to justify their estimates and consider the practical benefits of estimation. Common misconceptions are addressed, such as the misunderstanding of 'near numbers' and challenges with counting in 50s. The lesson concludes with a reflective 'Give me five' exercise where children review what they have learned, the skills they've used, what they found tricky, what helped them, and what they aim to remember from the lesson.