A quick estimate for a calculation is obtained from using approximate values, often rounded to 1 significant figure.

Estimating journeys from non-linear graphs

Maths

The work on gradient in the prior unit is expanded further in this unit by considering gradient as the rate of change and interpreting this in context. The gradient of the tangent is introduced as a way of estimating the gradient of a curve.

Real-life graphs

The curve models the movement of a particle. If we had scales on the axes and could find the area of the triangle it would give us __________ for the distance travelled.

Use the polygon mapped onto this graph to estimate the distance travelled by the vehicle. Distance $$\approx$$ {{}} metres.

The area of the polygon will estimate the distance travelled by the vehicle modelled in this graph but this will be __________. 

Which of these groups of polygons will give us the best estimate for the distance modelled by this curve?

Use these polygons to estimate the total distance travelled by the particle modelled by this curve. Distance $$\approx$$ {{}} metres.

An ________ is an estimate for a calculation which is greater than the exact answer.

How far has the particle modelled in this graph travelled after $$5$$ seconds?

$$A={1\over2}\times({a}\times{b})\times{h}$$

Which of the below is the formula for the area of a trapezium?

How far has the particle modelled in this graph travelled after $$5$$ seconds? {{}} metres.

Starter Quiz