As part of our morning check-in, the children are asked to examine a small quantity of objects in a jar. Recently, the items have been Teddy Graham cookies. “Are there a little bit or a lot?” The children are asked not to attempt to count the precise number of items, but instead to concentrate on making a reasonable guess. Using a number line and a transparent overlay, we highlight the three or four numbers that are most frequently suggested by the group. Being in the accurate range or zone is more important than arriving at the one right answer. If children wish to change their guesses, we always accept modifications. Our final estimate then becomes a group rather than individual answer. When no name is attached to a prediction, there is no shame in being incorrect. Risk-taking and problem-solving skills are enhanced when children don’t feel pressured to be perfect. We are already seeing the children’s proficiency at estimation improve with practice.
“What if I had put coloured bears in the jar instead of Teddy Grahams?” The children realized that since the coloured bears are larger than the Teddy Grahams, fewer bears would fit inside the jar. Excellent!