standard_description: Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole, including cases of unlike denominators, e.g., by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem. Use benchmark fractions and number sense of fractions to estimate mentally and assess the reasonableness of answers. For example, recognize an incorrect result 2/5 + 1/2 = 3/7, by observing that 3/7 < 1/2.
problem_activity: Warm-up
The purpose of an Estimation warm-up is to practice the skill of estimating a reasonable answer based on experience and known information, and also help students develop a deeper understanding of the meaning of standard units of measure. It gives students a low-stakes opportunity to share a mathematical claim and the thinking behind it (MP3). Asking yourself “Does this make sense?” is a component of making sense of problems (MP1), and making an estimate or a range of reasonable answers with incomplete information is a part of modeling with mathematics (MP4).
Launch
Display the image for all to see. Ask students to silently think of a number they are sure is too low, a number they are sure is too high, and a number that is about right, and write these down. Then, write a short explanation for the reasoning behind their estimate.
Student Facing
[IMG]
How much does a nickel weigh?
Record an estimate that is:
{"table": [{"_attributes": {"border": "1"}, "thead": [{"tr": [{"th": [{"_attributes": {"scope": "col"}, "_value": "too low"}, {"_attributes": {"scope": "col"}, "_value": "about right"}, {"_attributes": {"scope": "col"}, "_value": "too high"}]}]}], "tbody": [{"tr": [{"td": [{}, {}, {}]}]}]}]}
Explain your reasoning.
Student Response
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Activity Synthesis
Ask a few students to share their estimate and their reasoning. If a student is reluctant to commit to an estimate, ask for a range of values. Display these for all to see in an ordered list or on a number line. Add the least and greatest estimate to the display by asking, “Is anyone’s estimate less than
\(\underline{\hspace{.5in}}\)
? Is anyone’s estimate greater than
\(\underline{\hspace{.5in}}\)
?” If time allows, ask students, “Based on this discussion does anyone want to revise their estimate?”
Record the estimates in a place that they can remain until the end of the lesson. In a following activity, students will work to discover the answer.


aligns: yes