Great Estimations
#1 in Estimations Series
on Goodreads (108)
What’s inside...
Great Estimations is a children's book that encourages young readers to learn estimation skills in an enjoyable and interactive manner. Using real-life scenarios and vivid illustrations, the book illustrates how to make accurate estimations. The engaging content challenges readers to estimate the number of jelly beans on the book's cover and extends to other fun activities, making estimation a game. This educational book also emphasizes training the eyes and mind for great estimations and includes Common Core connections. It has been recognized as a 2007 Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year.
Discussion points
Why do you think estimating is an important skill to learn?
How do you feel when you try to guess the number of objects?
Can you think of a situation where estimating could help you in everyday life?
What are some different strategies you could use for making a good estimation?
How did the illustrations in the book help you understand how to estimate?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own experiences where you use estimation in daily tasks, such as cooking or shopping, to make the concept relatable.
Encourage children to practice estimation outside the book context, like estimating the number of steps from one place to another or the number of cars on the street.
Praise efforts rather than accuracy to build their confidence in estimating.
Use household items to create estimation games that mirror scenarios in the book.
Ask open-ended questions to initiate critical thinking about why estimation might be useful and fun.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Estimation skills
Explanation: Through engaging visuals and practical examples, 'Great Estimations' teaches children how to make close guesses about large numbers of objects by grouping and counting.
Real-World Application: Children can apply estimation skills in everyday scenarios such as guessing the number of candies in a jar or estimating the amount of time needed to complete a homework assignment.
Example Lesson: Mathematical reasoning
Explanation: The book encourages logical thinking and mathematical reasoning by challenging children to think about numbers in creative and accessible ways.
Real-World Application: This helps children in making informed decisions and solving problems efficiently in real life, such as dividing tasks or resources fairly among friends.
Example Lesson: Attention to detail
Explanation: By teaching estimation, the book indirectly emphasizes the importance of observing and paying attention to details in order to make accurate guesses.
Real-World Application: Enhanced observation skills can aid children in academic settings, like noticing patterns in assignments, and in daily life, such as remembering details in instructions.
Example Lesson: Confidence in abilities
Explanation: As children practice and improve their estimation skills, they build confidence in their mathematical abilities and decision-making skills.
Real-World Application: This boost in self-confidence can encourage children to take on new challenges and participate more actively in school.