

Topic: Number and Algebra
Level: IB Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation (SL)
File Type: Editable Slides / Worksheet
Overview
This resource focuses on approximation, estimation, and percentage error — essential tools for managing precision and reliability in mathematical problem solving.
Students will learn how to round numbers to specified significant figures, estimate values, and calculate percentage errors in both pure and applied contexts.
The lesson emphasizes the difference between estimation, accuracy, and precision, helping students interpret results correctly and communicate measurements effectively.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Round numbers to a specified number of significant figures.
- Estimate numerical values to appropriate levels of accuracy.
- Distinguish between estimation, accuracy, and precision.
- Calculate and interpret percentage errors in measurement and computation.
- Express answers in scientific (standard) form where appropriate.
What’s Included
- Explanation of estimation versus significant figures with clear definitions and examples.
- Practice problems on rounding numbers to specified significant figures, including step-by-step solutions.
- Discussion on accuracy versus precision with conceptual notes and examples.
- Introduction to the formula for percentage error with guided application.
- Real-world practice problem calculating estimated area of land and its percentage error when compared to the actual measurement.
- Solutions presented clearly for both parts of the problem, demonstrating proper rounding and standard form notation.
Topics Covered
- Estimation and rounding principles.
- Significant figures and their role in measurement.
- Distinguishing between accuracy and precision.
- Calculating and interpreting percentage error.
- Representing values in standard (scientific) form.
- Practical applications of approximation in real-world contexts.
Why You’ll Love It
- Reinforces fundamental skills required throughout IB Math AI SL Topic 1.
- Combines conceptual understanding with practical computation.
- Realistic examples connect mathematical precision to applied problem solving.
- Clear, visually consistent formatting for classroom presentation or self-paced study.
- Ideal for lesson introduction, guided practice, or exam review sessions.
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