2. Benchmark Numbers
A benchmark is a number that is easy to use when you estimate.
When estimating the sums and differences of fractions, we use the
benchmarks 0, ½, and 1.
3. • Change each fraction to 0, ½, or 1.
• Add or subtract.
5 + 3
11 25
+
4. • Change each fraction to 0, ½, or 1.
• Add or subtract.
5 + 3
11 25
+
5. • Change each fraction to 0, ½, or 1.
• Add or subtract.
5 + 3
11 25
½ +
6. • Change each fraction to 0, ½, or 1.
• Add or subtract.
5 + 3
11 25
½ +
7. • Change each fraction to 0, ½, or 1.
• Add or subtract.
5 + 3
11 25
½ + 0
8. • Change each fraction to 0, ½, or 1.
• Add or subtract.
5 + 3
11 25
½ + 0 =
9. • Change each fraction to 0, ½, or 1.
• Add or subtract.
5 + 3
11 25
½ + 0 = ½
17. Estimating Mixed Numbers
• If you have mixed numbers, then round the
fraction part up to 1 or down to 0.
• If the fraction is greater than ½, then round
up to 1.
• If it is less than ½, then round down to 0.