Brackets for Quotients

Worksheet Description

This worksheet is centered around the mathematical concept of estimating quotients, which involves making an educated guess about the answer to a division problem. It features twelve division problems, each with a dividend of three or more digits and a two-digit divisor. The worksheet instructs students to use compatible numbers to assist in their estimation, and to show how they arrived at their estimates. An example is given at the start of the worksheet, demonstrating how to round the dividend and divisor to make the division simpler before estimating the quotient.

The worksheet’s educational goal is to enhance students’ number sense and ability to perform quick mental estimations when exact division is not necessary. By requiring students to show their estimation process, it reinforces the understanding of how to round numbers to more ‘compatible’ figures that are easier to work with mentally. This skill is crucial in everyday problem-solving and is a stepping stone to more advanced mathematical concepts. Moreover, it teaches students to justify their mathematical reasoning, a key aspect of mathematical learning and communication.