The Estimation Jar

The Estimation Jar

At the beginning of the year, I fill the estimation jar with less than 20 identical items.  On our calendar is a laminated poster of the estimation jar.  Throughout the week, students take turns making their estimate of how many items are in the jar and recording their guesses on a post it note.  The notes are placed on the estimation jar poster.  On Friday, we count the items.  The student who is closest to the actual number takes home the jar to be filled for next week.  If that child has already taken home the jar, he or she gets to pull a popsicle stick from a can.  The sticks have students' names written on them.  I have a small letter that I shrink and laminate from a teacher resource book. This letter goes home in the jar.  (I do make lots of extra copies as the letter tends to get lost!)  It does not have a special bag at this time.  I just send home the jar!

Need some more ways to incorporate math activities?  Check out my "Calendar Activities!"

You can get materials for you own Estimation Jar from: