3.1.C
Math3rd GradeMathematical process standards
The Standard
select tools, including real objects, manipulatives, paper and pencil, and technology as appropriate, and techniques, including mental math, estimation, and number sense as appropriate, to solve problems
Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Mathematics
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students decide whether to use objects, drawings, written work, technology, mental math, or estimation for a problem. They explain why their choice makes sense.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students choose an efficient approach based on the numbers and the question. They solve accurately, explain why their choice fits, and switch approaches when needed.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may use the same tool for every problem, even when it slows them down. They may estimate when an exact answer is needed, or calculate exactly when an estimate would work.
How to Assess It
- Give one word problem and ask students to name the tool or strategy they would use, solve it, and explain their choice.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Set out counters, base-ten blocks, paper, and tablets, then have pairs choose one to solve three different problems.
Ask students to write which method they would use to find 198 plus 203 and explain why.
Play Strategy Match by having students pair problem cards with tool cards, then defend each match to a partner.
Give students a classroom snack budget and ask when they need mental math, estimation, or an exact written calculation.
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