Estimation and Calculation

Computation is an important part of problem solving. Many of us were taught that there is just one way to do each kind of computation. For example, we may have learned to subtract by borrowing, without realizing that there are many other methods of subtracting numbers.

In this new Math unit, students will investigate several methods for adding, subtracting, and multiplying whole numbers and decimals. They will measure classmates’ strides, and find a median length for all of them. Then they will use the median length to estimate how far it would take to walk to various destinations. 


Throughout the year, students will practice using estimation, calculators, as well as mental and paper-and-pencil methods of computation. Fifth graders will identify which method is most appropriate for solving a particular problem. From these exposures to a variety of methods, they will learn that there are often several ways to accomplish the same task and achieve the same result. Students are encouraged to solve problems by whatever method they find most comfortable. 

Computation is usually not the first step in the problem-solving process. One must first decide what numerical data are needed to solve the problem and which operations need to be performed. In this unit, your child will continue to develop his or her problem-solving skills with a special focus on writing and solving equations for problems.