Enrico Fermi, the physicist responsible for the first nuclear detonation, was known for his ability to estimate with little or no data. Use this task to have your classes practice their Fermi skills. They estimate the magnitude of three different problems and explain their reasoning.

Concepts

estimation, estimation length

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Additional Tags

math

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Instructional Ideas

• Incorporate as an opener to engage learners
• Save lesson for a day with a shortened period or a day that requires a substitute

Classroom Considerations

• Learners require background knowledge of the approximate capacity of baseball stadiums

Pros

• Each problem is unique and has different levels of magnitude

Cons

• Learners with lack of background knowledge will have difficulty

Common Core

HSN-Q.A.3