A degree of accuracy shows how precise a number or measurement is.  E.g. to the nearest cm, nearest 10, 1 s.f., etc

Degrees of accuracy

Maths

In this unit, pupils have learnt how to round to a given number of decimal places or significant figures and explored the effect of using rounded numbers for calculations. In the future unit, pupils will investigate the bounds and perform calculations to determine a best/worst case scenario.

The prior unit on place value allowed pupils to develop the skills needed to estimate and round values. By understanding the value of each digit, pupils can determine what other values are close to the original value. This unit continues the exploration of the infinite nature of sets of numbers.

Estimation and rounding

A {{ }} of accuracy shows how precise a number or measurement is.

The average size of a secondary school in 2024 was 1050.  This number is most likely to have been rounded to which degree of accuracy?

The average temperature in the UK in 2024 was 10.93°C.  This is most likely to have been rounded to which degree of accuracy?

Match each situation to the most appropriate degree of accuracy.

Use the exchange rate £1:$1.27 to convert $6.95 into pounds.  Give your answer to an appropriate degree of accuracy.

Use your calculator to evaluate $$1.27 - \sqrt{15}\over16.8 + 0.06$$.  Give your answer to an appropriate degree of accuracy.

A degree of accuracy shows how precise a number or {{ }} is.  For example, to the nearest cm, to the nearest 10 or to 1 significant figure. 

Match each number to the correct statement.

Round 0.00600736 to 3 significant figures.

Starter Quiz