Max Maths, Year 2, Work Book, Estimating numbers to 100

In the Max Maths Year 2 Workbook, young learners are introduced to the concept of estimation, a foundational skill in developing number sense. Practice 2 focuses on estimating numbers up to 100, a key milestone for Year 2 pupils. The first task requires children to look at a picture of ants and make an educated guess—known as an estimate—of how many ants there are. After recording their estimate, they are instructed to count the ants one by one to find the actual number, which they also note down. This exercise not only helps them practice estimation but also reinforces accurate counting. They then compare their estimate to the actual number to see if their initial guess was close, fostering reflection on their estimation skills.

The second task follows a similar structure but shifts the focus to estimating a collection of shapes. Students begin by estimating the total number of shapes before counting them individually to determine the precise quantity. After comparing their estimated and actual counts, they reflect on the accuracy of their estimation. To deepen their understanding, students are also asked to describe their estimating process. This step encourages them to think about the strategies they used, such as grouping or visual approximation, and to articulate their approach to estimation. Such activities are designed to build confidence in making reasonable guesses and improve their ability to judge quantities without relying on exact counting.