Virginia SOL 3.CE.1.b
The Standard
Apply strategies (e.g., rounding to the nearest 10 or 100, using compatible numbers, using other number relationships) to estimate a solution for single-step or multistep addition or subtraction problems, including those in context, where addends or minuends do not exceed 1,000.
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will estimate, represent, solve, and justify solutions to single-step and multistep problems, including those in context, using addition and subtraction with whole numbers where addends and minuends do not exceed 1,000.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students estimate sums and differences using rounding, compatible numbers, or known number relationships. They apply the strategy to one-step and multistep problems, then explain why their estimate fits the situation.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students choose a useful strategy, such as rounding or compatible numbers, and estimate accurately. They show each step in a multistep problem and explain why the result is reasonable.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may find the exact answer instead of estimating, or round to the wrong place. They may change the order in subtraction, round inconsistently, or skip a step in multistep problems.
How to Assess It
- Use this exit ticket: “A library had 638 books, bought 187, then donated 96. Estimate the final number of books and name your strategy.”
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs number cards and open number lines; students round each number, estimate the result, then compare strategies with a partner.
Ask, “Which gives a better estimate for 487 + 214, rounding to tens or hundreds?” Students defend their choice in writing.
Play Estimate Match: students pair problem cards with estimate cards, then earn a point by naming and explaining the strategy.
Use a classroom supply order with three prices; students estimate the total and decide whether a $500 budget is enough.
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Printable 3.CE.1.b Worksheet
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Related Standards
- 4.CE.1.c
Apply strategies (e.g., place value, properties of addition, other number relationships) and algorithms, including the standard algorithm, to determine the sum ...
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- 3.CE.1.c
Apply strategies (e.g., place value, properties of addition, other number relationships) and algorithms, including the standard algorithm, to determine the sum ...
- 4.CE.1.b
Apply strategies (e.g., rounding to the nearest 100 or 1,000, using compatible numbers, other number relationships) to estimate a solution for single-step or mu...
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