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9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 1 LEARNING UNIT: 9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations CREDITS: 02 NQF LEVEL: 03 LEARNER MANUAL LEARNING PROGRAMME DEVELOPED BY YELLOWMEDIA PUBLISHERS

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9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 1

LEARNING UNIT: 9010 Demonstrate an understanding of

the use of different number bases and

measurement units and an awareness

of error in the context of relevant

calculations

CREDITS: 02

NQF LEVEL: 03

LEARNER MANUAL

LEARNING PROGRAMME

DEVELOPED BY YELLOWMEDIA

PUBLISHERS

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 2

Welcome to the programme Follow along in the guide as the training practitioner takes you through the material. Make notes and sketches that will help you to understand and remember what you have learnt. Take notes and share information with your colleagues. Important and relevant information and skills are transferred by sharing!

This learning programme is divided into sections. Each section is preceded by a description of the required outcomes and assessment criteria as contained in the curriculum. These descriptions will define what you have to know and be able to do in order to be awarded the credits attached to this learning programme. These credits are regarded as building blocks towards achieving the Qualification upon successful assessment and can never be taken away from you!

Programme methodology The programme methodology includes facilitator presentations, readings, individual activities, group discussions and skill application exercises. Know what you want to get out of the programme from the beginning and start applying your new skills immediately. Participate as much as possible so that the learning will be interactive and stimulating.

The following principles were applied in designing the course: Because the course is designed to maximise interactive learning, you are

encouraged and required to participate fully during the group exercises As a learner you will be presented with numerous problems and will be required to

fully apply your mind to finding solutions to problems before being presented with the course presenter’s solutions to the problems

Through participation and interaction the learners can learn as much from each other as they do from the course presenter

Although learners attending the course may have varied degrees of experience in the subject matter, the course is designed to ensure that all delegates complete the course with the same level of understanding

Because reflection forms an important component of adult learning, some learning resources will be followed by a self-assessment which is designed so that the learner will reflect on the material just completed.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 3

This approach to course construction will ensure that learners first apply their minds to finding solutions to problems before the answers are provided, which will then maximise the learning process which is further strengthened by reflecting on the material covered by means of the self-assessments.

Different types of activities you can expect

To accommodate your learning preferences, a variety of different types of activities are included in the formative and summative assessments. They will assist you to achieve the outcomes (correct results) and should guide you through the learning process, making learning a positive and pleasant experience. The table below provides you with more information related to the types of activities. Icons Type of assessment Description

Formative knowledge

assessment:

This comprises of questions

to assess your knowledge.

You must obtain at least 80%

in each assessment criterion.

Teamwork Self-Assessment

Form

After you completed this

course, you will be required

to assess your own

behaviour regarding team

work.

Work place experience After you completed this

course, you will be required

to assess your own

behaviour regarding work

experience.

Project research After you completed this

course, you will be required

to assess your own

behaviour regarding

research.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 4

Learner Administration Attendance Register You are required to sign the Attendance Register every day you attend training sessions facilitated by a facilitator. Programme Evaluation Form On completion you will be supplied with a “Learning programme Evaluation Form”. You are required to evaluate your experience in attending the programme. Please complete the form at the end of the programme, as this will assist us in improving our service and programme material. Your assistance is highly appreciated.

Learner Support The responsibility of learning rests with you, so be proactive and ask questions and seek assistance and help from your facilitator, if required. Please remember that this learning programme is based on outcomes based education principles which implies the following:

You are responsible for your own learning – make sure you manage your study,

research and workplace time effectively.

Learning activities are learner driven – make sure you use the Learner Guide and

Formative Assessment Workbook in the manner intended, and are familiar with the

workplace requirements.

The Facilitator is there to reasonably assist you during contact, practical and

workplace time for this programme – make sure that you have his/her contact

details.

You are responsible for the safekeeping of your completed Formative Assessment

Workbook and Workplace Guide

If you need assistance please contact your facilitator who will gladly assist you.

If you have any special needs please inform the facilitator.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 5

Learner Expectations Please prepare the following information. You will then be asked to introduce yourself to the instructor as well as your fellow learners

Your name

The organisation you represent

Your position in the organisation

What do you hope to achieve by attending this programme / what are your expectations?

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 6

Information about this module Overview 9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations . Scope of the programme The learning contained within this module will enable learners to:

Convert numbers between the decimal number system and the binary number system.

Work with numbers in different ways to express size and magnitude.

Demonstrate the effect of error in calculations. Entry Level Requirements The credit value is based on the assumption that people starting to learn towards this unit standard are competent in Mathematical Literacy and Communications at NQF level 2 Target group Mode of delivery This module will be delivered to you in a four day facilitated workshop. During these four days you will be required to complete formative activities during class time as well as after class in your own study time. Unit standard alignment Unit standard Number : 9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number

bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations NQF Level :03 Credits :02 Learning time It will take the average learner approximately 02 learning hours to master the outcomes of this programme. Assessment

Formative assessment will take place during the learning process in class through means of exercises. You will be required to complete activities as part of a group in class as well as individual activities. These formative activities will help prepare you for your final assessment.

Summative assessment will be conducted at the end of this learning process

through means of a Portfolio of Evidence.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 7

In order to assess whether a learner can actually demonstrate the desired outcomes, assessment criteria are included in the unit standard. Each outcome has its own set of assessment criteria. The assessment criteria describe the evidence that is needed that will show that the learner has demonstrated the outcome correctly. It is of utmost importance that the learner fully understands the assessment criteria as listed in the unit standard, as it is the only way in which the learner will know what he will be assessed against. The final or summative assessment is the most important aspect of this training program. It is during this process that the learner will be declared competent or not yet competent. Range statements This unit standard covers: Approximation in relation to the use of computing technologies, the distinction between exact and approximate answers in a variety of problem settings. More detailed range statements are provided for specific outcomes and assessment criteria as needed.

Remember: Also included in the unit standard are the range statements in support of the assessment criteria. The range statements indicate detailed requirements of the assessment criteria.

The learner guide The learner guide is included in this material under various learning units. The learner guide has been designed in such a manner that the learner is guided in a logical way through the learning material and requirements of the unit standard. RPL assessment The assessment of RPL learners will be conducted in the same way as for those of new learners. The assessment pack is exactly the same and will therefore be used for new learners as well as RPL Learners. It must however be noted that learners who are applying for RPL must provide proof of previous learning and subject related experience prior to the assessment. This proof or evidence can be in the format of certified copies (certificates) of previous learning programs that have been attended. All the evidence will be assessed and authenticated before a learner will be allowed to enrol for an RPL program.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 8

Contents

Welcome to the programme ................................................................................................. 2

Programme methodology ..................................................................................................... 2

Different types of activities you can expect .......................................................................... 3

Learner Administration ......................................................................................................... 4

Learner Support ................................................................................................................... 4

Learner Expectations ........................................................................................................... 5

Information about this module .............................................................................................. 6

Learning Unit 1: ................................................................................................................. 11

Computational Tools ................................................................................................................... 12

Calculators .................................................................................................................................... 12

How to Use a Calculator ............................................................................................................. 16

Calculations .................................................................................................................................. 19

Addition Algorithms ..................................................................................................................... 22

Subtraction Algorithms ................................................................................................................ 24

Multiplication Algorithms ............................................................................................................. 26

Division Algorithms ...................................................................................................................... 27

Formative assessment ....................................................................................................... 30

Role play................................................................................................................................... 30

Activity: 01 ............................................................................................................................... 30

Learning Unit 2: ................................................................................................................. 34

What are irrational numbers? .................................................................................................... 35

Solutions Involving Irrational Numbers ..................................................................................... 36

The History of Measurement Instruments ............................................................................... 37

Measurement Systems ............................................................................................................... 40

Measuring Instruments ............................................................................................................... 44

Formative assessment ....................................................................................................... 52

Role play................................................................................................................................... 52

Project ....................................................................................................................................... 53

Group Activity: 05 .................................................................................................................. 53

Learning Unit 3: ................................................................................................................. 54

Strategies to Estimate the Length of Objects .......................................................................... 55

Approximations ............................................................................................................................ 56

Formative assessment ....................................................................................................... 59

Role play................................................................................................................................... 59

Activity: 06 ............................................................................................................................... 59

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 9

Project ....................................................................................................................................... 60

Annexure 1: Growth Action Plan ....................................................................................... 64

Annexure 2: Words that are new to me............................................................................. 65

Annexure 3: Training Evaluation ....................................................................................... 66

Annexure 4: Evaluation of Facilitator ................................................................................ 67

2. Bibliography ............................................................................................................. 68

SECTION C: SELF REFLECTION .............................................................................. 69

Self-Assessment .......................................................................................................... 71

Learner Evaluation Form ........................................................................................... 72

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 10

Learning path:

Convert numbers between the decimal number system and the binary number system.

Work with numbers in different ways to express size and magnitude.

Demonstrate the effect of error in calculations.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 11

Learning Unit 1:

At the end of this module learners will be able to:

Introduction

1. Conversion between binary and decimal numbers is done correctly.

2. Basic addition and subtraction calculations in the binary number system are done correctly.

3. Practical applications of the decimal and binary system are explained correctly.

Conclusion

Convert numbers between the decimal number system and the binary number

system

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 12

Computational Tools

Arithmetic computations are generally performed in one of three ways:

Mentally

With paper and pencil, or

With a machine, e.g. calculator or abacus.

The method chosen depends on the purpose of the calculation. If we need rapid, precise

calculations, we would choose a machine. If we need a quick, ballpark estimate or if the numbers

are “easy,” we would do a mental computation.

Calculators

Computation can be defined as the act or process of computing;

calculation; reckoning.

A calculator (also known as a calculating machine) is a small

electronic or mechanical device that performs calculations,

requiring manual action for each individual operation.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 13

A calculator performs arithmetic operations on numbers. The simplest calculators can do only

addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

A simple calculator

More sophisticated calculators can handle exponential operations, roots, logarithms, trigonometric

functions, and hyperbolic functions.

A sophisticated calculator

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 14

An exponent is a quantity representing the power to which some

other quantity is raised. (e.g. y2)

A logarithm is an exponent used in mathematical calculations to

depict the perceived levels of variable quantities.

(Both of these concepts will be explained in more detail later)

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 15

Most calculators these days require electricity to operate. Portable, battery-powered calculators

are, however, still popular.

The Slide Rule

Before 1970, a more primitive form of calculator, the slide rule, was commonly used. It consisted of

a slate of wood, called the slide that could be moved in and out of a reinforced pair of slats. Both

the slide and the outer pair of slats had calibrated numerical scales. A movable, transparent sleeve

called the cursor was used to align numerals on the scales. The slide rule did not require any

source of power, but its precision was limited, and it was necessary to climb a learning curve to

become proficient with it.

A shop keeper’s abacus

One of the most primitive calculators, the abacus is still used in some regions of the Far East.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 16

The abacus uses groups of beads to denote numbers. Like the slide rule, the abacus requires no

source of power. The beads are positioned in several parallel rows, and can be moved up and

down to denote arithmetic operations. It is said that a skilled abacus user can do some calculations

just as fast as a person equipped with a battery-powered calculator.

As calculators became more advanced during the 1970s, they became able to make computations

involving variables (unknowns). These were the first personal computers (PCs). Today's personal

computers can still perform such operations, and most are provided with a virtual calculator

program that actually looks, on screen, like a handheld calculator. The buttons are actuated by

pointing and clicking.

Calculator Icon on a PC

How to Use a Calculator

Using a calculator is an important skill. A few quick steps can help anyone use the device.

Step 1

Learn the symbols associated with math. Basic calculators are dominated by a few standard

symbols including a plus sign (+) for addition problems, a minus sign (-) for subtraction, a

multiplication symbol (x or *), a division sign (÷) and an equal sign (=).

Step 2

It is important to understand the processes that go along with the signs.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 17

If you don't understand the process of division, it's useless to know the sign because you won't be

able to use it successfully. By first learning basic math principles, you can use a calculator to put

those processes to work.

Step 3

Get accustomed with the layout of a calculator. Most calculators have numbers in the middle,

starting with zero at the bottom of the layout and working upwards, in rows of three, to the number

nine. Basic math symbols are generally placed to the right of the numbers. The percentage button

(%) and square root button can be found with the math symbols.

Step 4

Use a graphing or scientific calculator when you learn more math processes. These calculators

perform more difficult mathematical processes and can handle longer strings of numbers. When

you learn various formulas and do longer problems, graphing and scientific calculators can do

much of the work for you. The layout of a scientific calculator is shown below.

On - button

Number buttons Basic Math

operations buttons

Display

Percentage button

Square Root

button Press for total

Decimal button

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 18

Basic Calculator Operations

Most calculators today have the following operations, which you need to know how to use:

Operation English Equivalent

+ plus, or addition

- minus or subtraction, Note: there is DIFFERENT key to make a

positive number into a negative number, perhaps marked (-) or NEG

known as "negation"

* or X times, or multiply by

/ over, divided by, division by

^ raised to the power

yx y raised to the power x

Sqrt or square root

ex "Exponentiate this," raise e to the power x

LN Natural Logarithm, take the log of

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 19

SIN Sine Function

SIN-1 Inverse Sine Function, arcsine, or "the angle whose sine is"

COS Cosine Function

COS-1 Inverse Cosine Function, arccosine, or "the angle whose cosine is"

TAN Tangent Function

TAN-1 Inverse Tangent Function, arctangent, or "the angle whose tangent

is"

( ) Parentheses, "Do this first"

Store (STO) Put a number in memory for later use

Recall Get the number from memory for immediate use

Calculations

The order of entry of the key strokes is important when doing calculations on a calculator. It might

be helpful to consult the operator's manual that came with your calculator if you have any specific

questions on how your calculator works.

The Order of Operations

When doing more than one operation we need follow a set of rules regarding which calculations to

do first.

For example, what is the "right" answer to?

Should we go "left to right" and just do the + first and get 30, or do we do the × first and get 15?

Well, in order to avoid confusion and get the correct answer, mathematicians decided long ago that

all calculations should be done in the same order. You may have learned the order of operations

as being: Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally! where the words stand for Parentheses,

Exponentiation, Multiplication or Division, Addition or Subtraction.

So what is the correct answer for our problem?

3 + 2 × 6 =

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 20

The order of operations would say that in the absence of parentheses, you would multiply 2×6 first,

then add 3, so the result should be

Rounding Numbers

Another issue to deal with when performing operations is how to state the answer. For example,

when a 20 centimeter wire is divided into 3 equal pieces, we would divide 20 by 3 to get the length

of each piece.

The 6 repeats forever. How is this number reported? It is rounded to some usually pre-determined

number of digits or decimal places. "Digits" means the total number of numbers both left and right

of the decimal point. "Decimal places" refers specifically to the number of numbers to the right of

the decimal point.

For comparison, let's try rounding this number to 2 decimal places -- two numbers to the right of

the point. To round, look at the digit after the one of interest -- in this case the third decimal place --

and use the rule:

If the digit is 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 rounds down

if the digit is 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9 round up

15!

20/3 = 6.6666…

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 21

In the example 6.666666666666.....the next digit is 6 so we round up, giving 6.67 as the desired

answer. If instead the instruction was to round the number 20/3 to 2 digits the answer would have

been 6.7 (two digits, one of which is a "decimal place").

Sometimes rounding is the result of an approximation. If you had 101 or 98 meters of some wire, in

each case you would have "about 100 meters."

Each algorithm is a list of well-defined instructions for completing a task. Starting from an initial

state, the instructions describe a computation that proceeds through a well-defined series of

successive states, eventually terminating in a final ending state.

An algorithm is a precise rule (or set of rules) specifying how to

solve some problem

Below is an algorithm that tries to figure out why the lamp doesn't turn on and tries to fix it using the steps.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 22

Below are mathematical algorithms that you need to familiarize yourself with in order to apply them

in calculations.

Addition Algorithms

Left-to-Right Algorithm

A. Starting at the left, add column-by-column, and adjust the result.

B. Alternate procedure: For some students this process becomes so automatic that they

start at the left and write the answer column by column, adjusting as they go without

writing any in-between steps.

If asked to explain, they say something like this:

“Well, 200 plus 400 is 600, but (looking at the next column) I need to adjust that, so write 7. Then,

60 and 80 is 140, but that needs adjusting, so, write 5. Now, 8 and 3 is 11, no more to do, write 1.”

This technique easily develops from experiences with manipulatives, such as base-10 blocks and

money, and exchange or trading games, and is consistent with the left-to-right patterns learned for

reading and writing.

Partial Sums Algorithm

Add the numbers in each column. Then add the partial sums.

2 6 8

+4 8 3

1. Add 6 14 11

2. Adjust 10's and 100's 7 4 11

3. Adjust 1's and 10's 7 5 1

2 6 8

+4 8 3

61 41 1

7 5 1

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 23

268

+483

1. Add 100's 600

2. Add 10's 140

3. Add 1's +11

4. Add partial sums 751

Students who use this type of algorithm often show more awareness of place value than those who

learned the traditional method. This procedure works well for larger numbers too.

Rename-Addends Algorithm (Opposite Change)

If a number is added to one of the addends and the same number is subtracted from the other

addend, the result remains the same. The purpose is to rename the addends so that one of the

addends ends in zeros.

This strategy indicates a good number sense and some understanding of equivalent forms.

A. Rename the first addend, and then the second.

268 -> (+2) -> 270 -> (+30) -> 300

+483 -> (-2) -> +481 -> (-30) -> +451

Add 751

Explanation: Adjust by 2, and then by 30.

B. Rename the first addend, and then the second.

268 -> (-7) -> 261 -> (-10) -> 251

+483 -> (+7) -> +490 -> (+10) -> +500

Add 751

Explanation: Adjust by 7, and then by 10.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 24

Counting-on Algorithm

A. Rename the first addend, and then the second.

268 + 483

Begin at 268 and count by 100’s, 4 times: 368, 468, 568, 668; then count by 10’s, 8

times: 678, 688, 698, 708, 718, 728, 738, 748; continue to count by l’s, 3 times: 749,

750, 751.

B. Counting-on algorithm alternate method.

With larger numbers children may use a combination of counting on and counting back.

Begin at 268 and count by 100’s, 5 times: 368, 468, 568, 668, 768; then count back by

10’s, twice: 758, 748; continue to count by 1’s, 3 times: 749, 750, 751.

Subtraction Algorithms

Add-Up Algorithm

Add up from the subtrahend (bottom

number) to the minuend (top number).

932

-356

Students may mentally keep track of the

numbers that are added or use paper to

record the addends on the side. Most of us

often use some form of this method when

making change.

Left-to-Right Algorithm

Starting at the left, subtract column by column.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 25

932

-356

1. Subtract 100's 932

-300

2. Subtract 10's 632

-50

3. Subtract 1's 582

-6

576

Rename Subtrahend Algorithm (also called Same Change)

If the same number is added to or subtracted from the minuend (top number) and subtrahend

(bottom number), the result remains the same. The purpose is to rename both the minuend and

the subtrahend so that the subtrahend ends in zero.

This type of solution method shows a strong ability to hold and manipulate numbers mentally.

A. Add the same number

932 -> (+4) -> 936 -> (+44) -> 976

-356 -> (+4) -> -360 -> (+40) -> -400

Subtract 576

Explanation: Adjust by 4, and then by 40.

B. Add the same number

932 -> (-6) -> 930 -> (+54) -> 976

-356 -> (-6) -> -350 -> (+50) -> -400

Subtract 576

Explanation: Adjust by 6, and then by 50.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 26

Two Unusual Algorithms

A. Subtract by adding column-by-column with adjustments. (Same problem as the previous

one.) Some students who use the add-up algorithm extend that to subtraction. They just write the

answer with no other remarks. Asked to explain, they say something like this:

“To get to 900 from 300, add 600; but the tens need help, so make it 5 [for 500]. To get to 130 from

50, add 80; but the ones need help, so write 7 [for 70]. To get to 12 from 6, add 6. No more to do.”

B. Write partial differences, negative if necessary, and adjust. A few students who love

negative numbers use some variation of the procedure shown here.

This method may be less common than some of the others. Yet, some students seem to have an

informal sense of working with negatives (deficits).

932

-356

1. Subtract 100's: 900-300 600

2. Subtract 10's: 30-50 -20

3. Subtract 1's: 2-4 -4

4. Add the partial differences 576

(600-20-4, done mentally)

Multiplication Algorithms

This algorithm is done from left to right, so that the largest partial product is calculated first. As with

left-to-right algorithms for addition, this encourages quick estimates of the magnitude of products

without necessarily finishing the procedure to find exact answers. To use this algorithm efficiently,

students need to be very good at multiplying multiples of 10, 100, and 1000. These skills also

serve very well in making ballpark estimates in problems that involve multiplication or division, and

introduces the * as a symbol of multiplication.

Partial-Product Algorithm

In the partial-product multiplication algorithm, each factor is thought of as a sum of ones, tens,

hundreds, and so on. For example, in 67 * 53, think of 67 as 60 + 7, and 53 as 50 + 3. Then each

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 27

part of one factor is multiplied by each part of the other factor, and all of the resulting partial

products are added together.

50 x 60

50 x 7

3 x 60

3 x 7

67

*53

3000

350

180

+21

3551

This method reinforces the understanding of place value and emphasizes the multiplication of the

largest product first.

Division Algorithms

The key question to be answered in many problems is, “How many of these are in that,” or “How

many n's are in m?” This can be expressed as division: “m divided by n,” or “m/n.”

One way to solve division problems is to use an algorithm that begins with a series of “at least/less

than” estimates of how many n’s are in m. You check each estimate. If you have not taken out

enough n’s from the m’s, take out some more; when you have taken out all there are, add the

interim estimates.

For example, 158/12 can be thought of as the question, “How many 12’s are in 158?” You might

begin with multiples of 10, because they are simple to work with. A quick mental calculation tells

you that there are at least ten 12’s in 158 (10 * 12 = 120), but less than twenty (since 20 * 12 =

240).

12)158

-120

38

-36

2

10

+3

13

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 28

You would record 10 as your first estimate and remove (subtract) ten 12’s from 158, leaving 38.

The next question is, “How many 12’s are in the remaining 38?” You might know the answer right

away (since three 12’s are 36), or you might sneak up on it: “More than 1, more than 2, a little more

than 3, but not as many as 4.” Taking out three 12’s leaves 2, which is less than 12, so you can

stop estimating.

To obtain the final result, you would add all of your estimates (10 + 3 = 13) and note what, if

anything is left over (2). There is a total of thirteen 12’s in 158; 2 are left over. The quotient is 13,

and the remainder is 2.

It is important to note that, in following this algorithm, students may not make the same series of

estimates. In the example, a student could have used 2 as a second estimate, taking out just two

12’s and leaving 14 still not accounted for—another 12, and a remainder of 2. The student would

reach the final answer in three steps rather than two. One way is not better than another.

12)158

-120

38

-24

14

-12

2

10

2

+1

13

The examples show one method of recording the steps in the algorithm.

One advantage of this algorithm is that students can use numbers that are easy for them to work

with. Students who are good estimators and confident of their extended multiplication facts will

need to make only a few estimates to arrive at a quotient, while others will be more

Comfortable taking smaller steps. More important than the course a student follows is that the

student understands how and why this algorithm works and can use it to get an accurate answer.

Another advantage of this algorithm is that it can be extended to decimals once students have a

pretty good sense of “How many n’s are in m?” Sometimes it may be desirable to express the

quotient as a decimal. Sometimes n may be larger than m (the divisor larger than the dividend), or

all the information is in decimal form. For the example 158 / 12, the estimates could be continued

by asking, “How many 12’s in the remainder 2?”

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 29

12)158.0

-120.0

38.0

-36.0

2.0

-1.2

.8

10.0

3.0

+0.1

13.1

A student with good number sense might answer, “At least one-tenth, since 0.1 * 12 is 1.2, but less

than two-tenths, since 0.2 * 2 = 2.4. The answer then could be l3.1 (12’s) in 158, and a little bit left

over.”

The question behind this algorithm, “How many of these are in that?” also serves well for estimates

where the information is given in “scientific notation” (see glossary). The uses of this algorithm with

problems that involve scientific notation or decimal information will be explored briefly in grades 5

and 6, mainly to build number sense and understanding of the meanings of division.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 30

Formative assessment

Role play

Activity: 01

Instructions Conversion between binary and decimal numbers is done

correctly

Method Group Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Answers:

Critical Cross Field

Orgaisation

DEMONSTRATING

Marks 10

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 31

Project

Group Activity: 02

Instructions Basic addition and subtraction calculations in the binary

number system are done correctly

Method Group Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Answers:

Critical Cross Field

Orgaisation

Communicating

Marks 05

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 32

Research PROJECT

Activity: 03

Instructions Explain Practical applications of the decimal and binary system

correctly

Method Individual Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Answers:

Critical Cross Field

Orgaisation

COLLECTING

Marks 10

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 33

Essay –Reflexive

Take some time to reflect on what you have learnt in this module and assess your

knowledge against the following pointers. Write down your answers. Should you not be

able to complete each of these statements, go back to your notes and check on your

understanding? You can also discuss the answers with a colleague.

Convert numbers between the decimal number system and the binary number system

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 34

Learning Unit 2:

At the end of this module learners will be able to:

Introduction

1. The prefixes indicating magnitude in measurements are correctly related to the

decimal system.

2. Conversions between related units in different measurement systems are correctly

applied in real-life contexts.

Conclusion

Work with numbers in different ways to express size and magnitude

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 35

What are irrational numbers?

An irrational number is any real number that is not rational. By real number we mean, loosely, a

number that we can conceive of in this world, one with no square roots of negative numbers (such

a number is called complex.)

Perhaps the best-known irrational numbers are π and √2.

π = 3.1415926535897932384626433832795 (and more...)

(People have calculated Pi to over one million decimal places and still there is no pattern.)

You cannot write down a simple fraction that equals Pi.

The popular approximation of 22/7 = 3.1428571428571... Is close but not accurate.

Another clue is that the decimal goes on forever without repeating.

Square Root of 2

Let's look at the square root of 2 more closely.

Irrational numbers are numbers that can be written as decimals but not as

fractions.

If you draw a square (of size "1"), what is the distance across the diagonal?

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 36

The answer is the square root of 2, which is 1.4142135623730950... (etc.)

Square Roots

Many square roots, cube roots, etc. are also irrational numbers. Examples:

√3 1.7320508075688772935274463415059 (etc.)

√99 9.9498743710661995473447982100121 (etc.)

But √4 = 2 (rational), and √9 = 3 (rational)...

... So not all roots are irrational.

Solutions Involving Irrational Numbers

It is impossible to record an irrational number as a complete decimal because the decimal

representation never ends or repeats. The current record for the decimal expansion of π, if

verified, stands at 5 trillion digits.

The earliest numerical approximation of π is almost certainly the value. In cases where little

precision is required, it may be an acceptable substitute.

For many purposes, 3.14 or 22/7 is close enough, although engineers often use 3.1416 (5

significant figures) or 3.14159 (6 significant figures) for more precision.

Practically, a physicist needs only 39 digits of π to make a circle the size of the observable

universe accurate to the size of a hydrogen atom.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 37

The word measurement stems, via the Middle French term mesure, from Latin mēnsūra, and the

verb metiri.

The science of measurement is also called the field of metrology.

With the exception of a few seemingly fundamental constants, units of measurement are

essentially arbitrary; in other words, people make them up and then agree to use them. Nothing

dictates that an inch has to be a certain length, or that a mile is a better measure of distance than a

kilometre.

The History of Measurement Instruments

Weights and measures were among the earliest tools invented by man. Primitive societies needed

rudimentary measurement tools for many tasks: constructing dwellings of an appropriate size and

shape, fashioning clothing, or bartering food or raw materials.

Measurement is the process or the result of determining the magnitude of a

quantity, such as length or mass, relative to a unit of measurement, such as a

meter or a kilogram.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 38

Length Measures

Among the earliest length measures was the foot, which varied from place to place For example,

three different Greek standards are known: the Doric foot, the Attic foot and the Samian foot. There

were two common sizes for a "foot" - the foot of 246 to 252 mm based on a man's bare foot - the

foot of 330 to 335 mm based on two hand measurements.

The first calibrated foot ruler, a measurement tool, was invented in 1675 by an unknown inventor.

Mass Measures

The early unit was a grain of wheat or barleycorn used to weigh the precious metals silver and

gold.

Larger units preserved in stone standards were developed that were used as both units of mass

and of monetary currency. The pound was derived from the mina used by ancient civilizations. A

smaller unit was the shekel, and a larger unit was the talent.

Calibrated means to be marked or divided into degrees

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 39

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 40

Measurement Systems

The Imperial System

Before SI units were widely adopted around the world, the British systems of English units and

later imperial units were used in Britain, the Commonwealth and the United States. The system

came to be known as U.S. customary units in the United States and is still in use there and in a few

Caribbean countries. These various systems of measurement have at times been called foot-

pound-second systems after the Imperial units for distance, weight and time.

Many Imperial units remain in use in Britain despite the fact that it has officially switched to the SI

system. Road signs are still in miles, yards, miles per hour, and so on, people tend to measure

their own height in feet and inches and milk is sold in pints, to give just a few examples.

The Metric System

The metric system is a decimal systems of measurement based on its units for length, the meter

and for mass, the kilogram. Metric units of mass, length, and electricity are widely used around the

world for both everyday and scientific purposes.

The metric system features a single base unit for many physical quantities. Other quantities are

derived from the standard SI units. Multiples and fractions of the units are expressed as powers of

ten of each unit.

The International System of Units (SI)

The International System of Units is the world's most widely used system of units, both in everyday

commerce and in science.

The SI was developed in 1960 from the meter-kilogram-second (MKS) system, rather than the

centimeter-gram-second (CGS) system, which, in turn, had many variants.

SI stands for the International System of Units which is the modern form of the metric system.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 41

At its development the SI also introduced several newly named units that were previously not a

part of the metric system. The SI units for the four basic physical quantities: length, time, mass,

and temperature are:

meter (m) :SI unit of length

second (s) :SI unit of time

kilogram (kg) :SI unit of mass

kelvin (K) :SI unit of temperature

To convert from meters to centimetres it is only necessary to multiply the number of meters by 100,

since there are 100 centimetres in a meter. Inversely, to switch from centimetres to meters one

multiplies the number of centimetres by 0.01 or divide centimetres by 100.

Length Measures

The imperial measures of length are:

Abbrev. Metric Table Information

Inch in or " 2.54 cm 12

inches

= 1 foot

The inch was originally the width of a thumb.

The name comes from uncia which is Latin for

'twelfth part' (see foot). An inch is considered to

be the width of a thumb (my thumb is 3/4 inch

wide).

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 42

Abbrev. Metric Table Information

Foot ft or ' 30.48 cm 12

inches

= 1 foot

3 feet =

1 yard

There was a Roman unit called a pes (plural

pedes) which means a foot, and was 29.59cm,

which is nearly the size of the modern foot. There

were twelve uncia to a pes as well. The foot has

been used in England for over a thousand years.

Yard Yd 91.44 cm 3 feet =

1 yard

1760

yards =

1 mile

A yard is a single stride. The word yard comes

from the Old English gyrd, meaning a rod or

measure. Henry I (1100-1135) decreed the lawful

yard to be the distance between the tip of his

nose and the end of his thumb. It was within a

tenth of an inch of the modern yard. A yard is

nearly a meter.

Mile mi or m 1.61 km 1760

yards =

1 mile

A mile is derived from mille, Latin for thousand,

since a Roman mile was mille passuum, a

thousand Roman paces or double strides, from

left foot to left foot. A passus was 5 pedes (see

foot), which would make 5000 feet to the mile.

The modern mile is 5280 feet or 1760 yards. In

the past every part of England had its own mile,

up to 2880 yards. In Ireland, the mile was 2240

yards well into the 20C. At school, we had to

learn that half a mile was 880 yards, and quarter

of a mile was 440 yards. People still say "about a

hundred yards" to mean a short walking

distance. Note that 'm' is the abbreviation for

both a mile and a meter!

Mass Measures

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 43

Abbrev. Metric Table Information

ounce oz 28.35 gm 16 oz =

1 lb

The abbreviation "oz" comes from 15th century

Italian, an abbreviation of "onza". "

Abbrev. Metric Table Information

pound Lb 453.59 gm 16 oz =

1 lb

14 lb =

1 stone

A pound is always written as "lb" to prevent

confusion with pound money "£". It is very old,

traced back to the Roman libra, which explains

its abbreviation.

stone st 6.35 kg 14 lb =

1 stone

The British weigh themselves in stone and the

Americans weigh themselves in pounds.

The stone was originally used for weighing agricultural commodities.

Cities in England would have official standard weights and measures. Merchants’ weights and

measures would be checked against this to make sure they weren't trying to cheat their customers.

Rough Conversion between Imperial and Metric

Britain is supposed to use metric measures. Volumes are not so much of a problem, as we buy

bottles or packs of this or that, and we have been allowed to keep our pints of beer! But we can

buy meat, and fruit and vegetables, by weight, and so we really ought to learn how to do this.

Formal conversions are too precise, so here is a rough-and-ready guide that you might be able to

keep in your head.

A bag of sugar weighs a kilo. This is slightly

heavier than the old days, when it weighed 2

lb.

If you're buying fruit and veg, then (roughly)

1 lb is half a kilo.

8 oz is between 200 grams and 250 grams.

A pack of butter is now 250 grams, but some

other goods choose 200 grams instead.

Here is a mnemonic: "Two and a quarter

pounds of jam weigh about a kilogram." (Or

of course anything else!)

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 44

Below are rough conversion charts. Work out what weight of meat or fruit or vegetables you

normally buy, and memorise the metric equivalent.

1 oz = 30 gm

2 oz = 60 gm

4 oz = 110 gm

8 oz = 230 gm

12 oz = 340 gm

1 lb = 450 gm

1 lb 4 oz = 570 gm

1 lb 8 oz = 680 gm

1 lb 12 oz = 800 gm

2 lb = 900 gm

Measuring Instruments

In the physical sciences, quality assurance, and engineering, measurement is the activity of

obtaining and comparing physical quantities of real-world objects and events. Established standard

objects and events are used as units, and the process of measurement gives a number relating the

item under study and the referenced unit of measurement. Measuring instruments, and formal

test methods which define the instrument's use, are the means by which these relations of

numbers are obtained. All measuring instruments are subject to varying degrees of instrument

error and measurement uncertainty.

100 gm = 3.5 oz

200 gm = 7 oz

300 gm = 10.5 oz

400 gm = 14 oz

500 gm = 1 lb 2 oz

600 gm = 1 lb 5 oz

700 gm = 1 lb 9 oz

800 gm = 1 lb 12 oz

900 gm = 2 lb

1 kilo = 2 lb 3 oz

A measurement is only as good as the instrument used.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 45

Scientists, engineers and other humans use a vast range of instruments to perform their

measurements. These instruments may range from simple objects such as rulers and stopwatches

to electron microscopes and particle accelerators. Virtual instrumentation is widely used in the

development of modern measuring instruments.

The Rule

A ruler, sometimes called a rule or line gauge, is an instrument used in geometry, technical

drawing, printing and engineering/building to measure distances and/or to rule straight lines.

Rulers have long been made of wood in a wide range of sizes. Plastics have been used since they

were invented; they can be molded with length markings instead of being scribed. Metal is used for

more durable rulers for use in the workshop; sometimes a metal edge is embedded into a wooden

desk ruler to preserve the edge when used for straight-line cutting. 12 inches or 30 cm in length is

useful for a ruler to be kept on a desk to help in drawing. Shorter rulers are convenient for keeping

in a pocket. Longer rulers, e.g., 18 inches (45 cm) are necessary in some cases. Rigid wooden or

plastic yardsticks, 1 yard long and meter sticks, 1 meter long, are also used.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 46

Desk rulers are used for three main purposes: to measure, to aid in drawing straight lines and as a

straight guide for cutting and scoring with a blade. Practical rulers have distance markings along

their edges.

Retractable Tape Measure

Measuring instruments similar in function to rulers are made portable by folding (carpenter's folding

rule) or retracting into a coil (metal tape measure) when not in use. When extended for use they

are straight, like a ruler.

The steps in using a ruler are

Step Action

1 Measure with a ruler or tape measure. Find an object or distance between

two points you want to measure. This can be a length of wood, string, or

cloth, or a line on a sheet of paper

2 Place the Zero end of your rule at the end of your object, usually on the

left side. Make sure the end of the ruler is flush with your object, and use

your left hand to hold it in place.

3 Move to the opposite side of the object you are measuring, and read the

last number on your rule that is alongside the object. This will indicate the

"whole unit" length of the object, example: 8 inches (when measuring in

inches. Count the number of fraction marks (dashes) the object you are

measuring goes beyond the last whole number. If your ruler is marked in

1/8 inch increments, and you are 5 marks past the last whole unit number,

you will be 5/8 inches beyond the 8, and your length will be read "8 and

5/8 inches'. Simplify fractions if you can.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 47

Step Action

4 Use a metric or decimal rule by reading the intermediate marks as tenths

of the unit the rule is marked in, or in case of a metric rule marked in

centimeters (cm), read the intermediate marks as millimeters (mm).

5 Use a tape measure (in this case, a retractable steel tape works best) to

measure between objects, for instance, walls. Slide the zero end of the

tape against one wall, or have a helper holds it, then pull out enough tape

to reach the opposite wall. Here, you should have two sizes of numbers,

the larger for feet (or meters), the smaller, for inches (or centimeters).

Read the feet (m) first, inches (cm), then fractions thereof. Example, a

distance may read "12 feet, 5 and 1/2 inches".

6 Use your 12 inch rule (or similar instrument, like a yardstick) to draw a

straight line. Lay it down on the surface you are drawing on, and lay your

pencil point along the edge of the rule, using it to guide you pencil as you

make your line.

Using a ruler to draw a straight line

Weighing scales

A weighing scale is a measuring instrument for determining the

weight or mass of an object.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 48

People have needed to weigh objects, especially for trade, since the earliest known societies

Dozens of types of scales exist, but the simplest scale uses a beam and a pivot to balance the

weight of one known object with another.

A spring scale measures weight by the distance a spring deflects under its load.

Weighing scales are used in many industrial and commercial applications, and products from

feathers to loaded tractor-trailers are sold by weight.

Commercial Use

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 49

An exact scale is critical for restaurants and other food industries that must portion food for sale.

Meats, fruits and vegetables are usually sold by the pound; if you cannot correctly weigh an item

the price per pound could vary widely from the actual weight. Even at a profitable restaurant food

costs around one-third of the total sale price. Labor and food can total 50 to 75 percent of total

sales. Thus, even an error of only a few percentage points can have a large impact on a business's

profit.

Supermarket / Retail Scale

These scales are used in the bakery, delicatessen, seafood, meat, produce, and other perishable

departments. Supermarket scales can print labels and receipts (in bakery specially), marks

weight/count, unit price, total price and in some cases tare, a supermarket label prints weight/cunt,

unit price and total price.

Health

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 50

Specialised medical scales and bathroom scales are used to measure the body weight of human

beings. A weighing scale is an essential component to maintaining the health of your body and

measuring the progress of a growing child.

More modern weighing scales use digital calibration to give a more accurate and quicker reading.

Science

Chemists often deal with chemical equations that call for specific amounts of substances and

different concentrations of solutions.

If you wanted to make 1 gram of a 20 percent solution of sodium chloride (table salt), you would

need to measure out 0.2 grams of NaCl and 0.8 grams of water, otherwise you cannot get an exact

20 percent solution.

Sources of Error

Some of the sources of error in high-precision balances or scales are:

Buoyancy, because the object being weighed displaces a certain amount of air, which must

be accounted for. Some high-precision balances may be operated in a vacuum.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 51

Error in mass of reference weight

Air gusts, even small ones, which push the scale up or down

Friction in the moving components that cause the scale to reach equilibrium at a different

configuration than a frictionless equilibrium should occur.

Settling airborne dust contributing to the weight

Mis-calibration over time, due to drift in the circuit's accuracy, or temperature change

Mis-aligned mechanical components due to thermal expansion/contraction of components

Magnetic fields acting on ferrous components

Forces from electrostatic fields, for example, from feet shuffled on carpets on a dry day

Chemical reactivity between air and the substance being weighed (or the balance itself, in

the form of corrosion)

Condensation of atmospheric water on cold items

Evaporation of water from wet items

Convection of air from hot or cold items

Gravitational anomalies for a scale, but not for a balance. I.e. using the scale near a

mountain; failing to level and recalibrate the scale after moving it from one geographical

location to another)

Vibration and seismic disturbances; for example, the rumbling from a passing truck

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 52

Formative assessment

Role play

Activity: 04

Instructions How are The prefixes indicating magnitude in measurements

are correctly related to the decimal system?

Method Group Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Answers:

Critical Cross Field

Orgaisation

DEMONSTRATING

Marks 10

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 53

Project

Group Activity: 05

Instructions State how Conversions between related units in different

measurement systems are applied in real-life contexts

Method Group Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Answers:

Critical Cross Field

Orgaisation

Communicating

Marks 05

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 54

Learning Unit 3:

At the end of this module learners will be able to:

Introduction

1. Symbols for irrational numbers such as 7c and 42 are left in formulae or steps to

calculations except where approximations are required.

2. Descriptions are provided of the effect of rounding prematurely in calculations.

3. The desired degree of accuracy is determined in relation to the practical context.

4. The final value of a calculation is expressed in terms of the required unit.

Conclusion

Demonstrate the effect of error in calculations

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 55

Strategies to Estimate the Length of Objects

Thumb - from the knuckle to the tip is about an

inch (2.54 cm).

The distance between two knuckles on a person's

finger might be about an inch (2.54 cm).

A sheet of paper is almost a foot (30.48 cm) long.

A doorknob is about a yard (99.44 cm) from the

floor.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 56

Strategies to Estimate the Mass of Objects

For small estimates, it is fairly easy to compare the mass of the unknown object to that of

something of a known mass.

If, for example, you pick up a rock, and it weighs about as much as a 2kg bag of ice, you can

estimate they weight of the rock to be about 2 kg.

If you can't pick up the rock, then it gets trickier. Either you just ballpark it (that boulder looks like it

weighs a quarter ton), or you do the more scientific way of doing things and know its approximate

density and guess it's volume and use that to determine its mass (density x volume=mass)

Approximations

An approximation (usually represented by the symbol ≈) is an inexact representation of something

that is still close enough to be useful.

Although approximation is most often applied to numbers, it is also frequently applied to such

things as mathematical functions, shapes, and physical laws.

Approximations may be used because incomplete information prevents use of exact

representations. Many problems in physics are either too complex to solve analytically, or

impossible to solve using the available analytical tools. Thus, even when the exact representation

is known, an approximation may yield a sufficiently accurate solution while reducing the complexity

of the problem significantly.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 57

What is algebra?

Algebra is a branch of mathematics that uses mathematical statements to describe relationships

between things that vary over time. These variables include things like the relationship between

supply of an object and its price. When we use a mathematical statement to describe a

relationship, we often use letters to represent the quantity that varies, since it is not a fixed amount.

These letters and symbols are referred to as variables.

The mathematical statements that describe relationships are expressed using algebraic terms,

expressions, or equations (mathematical statements containing letters or symbols to represent

numbers).

What is an algebraic expression?

The basic unit of an algebraic expression is a term. In general, a term is either a number or a

product of a number and one or more variables. Below is the term –3ax.

The numerical part of the term, or the number factor of the term, is what we refer to as the

numerical coefficient. This numerical coefficient will take on the sign of the operation in front of it.

The term above contains a numerical coefficient, which includes the arithmetic sign, and a variable

or variables. In this case the numerical coefficient is –3 and the variables in the term area and x.

Terms such as xz may not appear to have a numerical coefficient, but they do. The numerical

coefficient is 1, which is assumed.

Algebra is in a system for computation using letters or other

symbols to represent numbers, with rules for manipulating these

symbols

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 58

Algebraic Methods

Algebraic method refers to a method of solving an equation involving two or more variables where

one of the variables is expressed as a function of one of the other variables. There are typically two

algebraic methods used in solving these types of equations:

the substitution method and the

Elimination method.

One algebraic method is the substitution method. In this case, the value of one variable is

expressed in terms of another variable and then substituted in the equation. In the other algebraic

method – the elimination method – the equation is solved in terms of one unknown variable after

the other variable has been eliminated by adding or subtracting the equations. For example, to

solve:

8x + 6y = 16

-8x – 4y = -8

Using the elimination method, one would add the two equations as follows:

8x + 6y = 16

-8x – 4y = -8

2y = 8

Y= 4

The variable “x” has been eliminated.

Once the value for y is known, it is possible to solve for x by substituting the value for y in either

equation:

8x + 6y = 16

8x + 6(4) = 16

8x + 24 = 16

8x + 24 – 24 = 16 - 24

8x = -8

x= -1

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 59

Formative assessment

Role play

Activity: 06

Instructions State why Symbols for irrational numbers such as 7c and 42

are left in formulae or steps to calculations except where

approximations are required

Method Group Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Answers:

Critical Cross Field

Orgaisation

DEMONSTRATING

Marks 10

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 60

Project

Group Activity: 07

Instructions Provide Descriptions of the effect of rounding prematurely in

calculations

Method Group Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Answers:

Critical Cross Field

Orgaisation

Communicating

Marks 05

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 61

Research PROJECT

Activity: 08

Instructions Determine The desired degree of accuracy in relation to the

practical context

Method Individual Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Answers:

Critical Cross Field

Orgaisation

COLLECTING

Marks 10

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Summative assessment

Simulation

ACTIVITY 01

Instructions How do you express The final value of in terms of the required

unit?

CCFO

ORGANISING

Method Group Activity

Media Method Flipchart

Mark 10

Answer:

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 63

Essay –Reflexive

Take some time to reflect on what you have learnt in this module and assess your

knowledge against the following pointers. Write down your answers. Should you not be

able to complete each of these statements, go back to your notes and check on your

understanding? You can also discuss the answers with a colleague.

Demonstrate the effect of error in calculations.

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 64

Annexure 1: Growth Action Plan The personal development plan will enable you address any areas of weakness that you identify during the course and stimulate your desire for personal growth. Growth Action Plan

I have identified the following as areas in which I need to improve in order to become competent. List in order of priority.

Actions to be taken

Resources Completion date Evidence

Learner Name: Learner Signature: Facilitator Name: Facilitator Signature:

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 65

Annexure 2: Words that are new to me Compile a list of words that is new to you and discuss the meaning of the words with your facilitator.

Term

Description

e.g. characteristic

Trait, feature, quality, attribute, etc

Learner Name: Learner Signature:

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 66

Facilitator Name: Facilitator Signature:

Annexure 3: Training Evaluation

Training Program

Facilitator Name

Date

Ratings:

1 Poor 2 Areas for Improvement 3 Meet the standard requirements 4 Very Good 5 Excellent

Tick where appropriate:

Did the training relate to your job e.g. skills, knowledge? 1 2 3 4 5

Comments:

To what extent will your performance improve as a result of attending this training

1 2 3 4 5

Comments:

To what extent would you recommend this course to others? 1 2 3 4 5

Comments:

Did this training meet your desired needs? 1 2 3 4 5

Comments:

Was the training material user friendly / easy to understand? 1 2 3 4 5

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 67

Annexure 4: Evaluation of Facilitator Ratings:

1 Poor 2 Areas for Improvement 3 Meet the standard requirements 4 Very Good 5 Excellent

Tick where appropriate:

1 2 3 4 5 Preparation for the training

Knowledge of subject

Handling of questions

Interaction with participants

Voice clarity

Use of training aids (flip charts, handouts, etc)

Facilitator made training exciting

Recommendation of facilitator for future training

Other comments on Facilitator’s delivery of his training

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 68

2. Bibliography

Acknowledgements & Reference The following web-sites have been used for research:

Learning unit Prescribed Learning Material /text

book

Supplier

Yellow Media Publishers

Senior learning material Developer:

Ms Duduzile Zwane

www.yellowmedia.co.za

[email protected]

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

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SECTION C: SELF REFLECTION

I enjoyed/did not enjoy this module because:

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I enjoyed/did not enjoy this module because:

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I found group work ___________________________________!!!

The most interesting thing I learnt was:

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I feel I have gained the necessary skills and knowledge to:

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9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 70

_____________________________________________________________

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Please add the following to this module:

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Some comments from my classmates about my participation in class:

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

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Self-Assessment

Self-Assessment:

You have come to the end of this module – please take the time to review what you have learnt to date, and conduct a self-assessment against the learning outcomes of this module by following the instructions below:

Rate your understanding of each of the outcomes listed below: Keys: - no understanding - Some idea - Completely comfortable

NO OUTCOME

SELF RATING

1. Convert numbers between the decimal number system and the binary number system.

2. Work with numbers in different ways to express size and magnitude

3. Demonstrate the effect of error in calculations.

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Learner Evaluation Form

Learning Programme Name

Facilitator Name

Learner name (Optional)

Dates of Facilitation

Employer / Work site

Date of Evaluation

Learner Tip:

Please complete the Evaluation Form as thoroughly as you are able to, in order for us to continuously improve our training quality! The purpose of the Evaluation Form is to evaluate the following:

logistics and support

facilitation

training material

assessment Your honest and detailed input is therefore of great value to us, and we appreciate your assistance in completing this evaluation form!

A Logistics and Support Evaluation

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1 Was communication regarding attendance of the programme efficient and effective?

2 Was the Programme Coordinator helpful and efficient?

3 Was the training equipment and material used effective and prepared?

4 Was the training venue conducive to learning (set-up for convenience of learners, comfortable in terms of temperature, etc.)?

Additional Comments on Logistics and Support

No Criteria / Question

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B Facilitator Evaluation 1 The Facilitator was prepared and knowledgeable on the

subject of the programme

2 The Facilitator encouraged learner participation and input

3 The Facilitator made use of a variety of methods, exercises, activities and discussions

4 The Facilitator used the material in a structured and effective manner

5 The Facilitator was understandable, approachable and respectful of the learners

6 The Facilitator was punctual and kept to the schedule

Additional Comments on Facilitation

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1 2 3 4 5

C Learning Programme Evaluation 1 The learning outcomes of the programme are

relevant and suitable.

2 The content of the programme was relevant and suitable for the target group.

3 The length of the facilitation was suitable for the programme.

4 The learning material assisted in learning new knowledge and skills to apply in a practical manner.

5 The Learning Material was free from spelling and grammar errors

6 Handouts and Exercises are clear, concise and relevant to the outcomes and content.

7 Learning material is generally of a high standard, and user friendly

Additional Comments on Learning Programme

D Assessment Evaluation

No Criteria / Question

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1 2 3 4 5 1 A clear overview provided of the assessment

requirements of the programme was provided

2 The assessment process and time lines were clearly explained

3 All assessment activities and activities were discussed

Additional Comments on Assessment

9010 Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an

awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations Learner Guide 75