Problem solving skills are once again sharpened. Students learn to estimate sums and difference in problems involving mixed numbers, and to develop rules for computing based on their background with whole numbers and fractions. They also use mental math to explore properties. As students continue their work with fractions, they are developing skills they will need in their everyday lives and in their work with decimals, probability, and algebra. This section guides students through experience in both customary and metric measurement.
Students estimate and work with real data from a table in realistic settings.
As students explore, they use critical thinking skills to solve problems. Students work with ratios and proportion in various settings and enhance their problem-solving ability. Visual aspects of ratio and proportion are used to improve understanding. Problem-solving skills are improved through writing equations as well as working with data. They use mental math and estimation in working with percents and explore these concepts in conjunction with consumer mathematics, statistical graphs and geometry.