Exploring vocabulary - Muschla Gary R. 2012

Dinosaur playground
Math words

Mathematics is a subject that has a special vocabulary.

1. estimate (n): a guess or opinion about the size, amount, etc. of something; (v): to guess the size, amount, etc. of something

An estimate is not an exact number.

We tried to estimate the cost of our vacation.

2. solution (n): an answer; an explanation

Victoria found the solution to the math puzzle.

3. fraction (n): a number that names a part of a whole or a part of a group

A fraction has a numerator and a denominator.

4. measure (n): a unit used to find the length, width, weight, etc. of something; (v): to find the length, width, weight, etc. of something

An inch is a unit of measure for length.

For homework, we must measure the sides and angles of polygons.

5. problem (n): a question to be solved and answered

The last problem on the math quiz was the hardest.

6. polygon (n): a geometric figure with three or more angles and sides

A triangle is an example of a polygon.

7. equal (adj): having the same amount, quantity, or value

One dollar and four quarters are equal in value.

8. decimal (n): a number with one or more digits to the right of a decimal point

The number 7.85 is a decimal.

9. graph (n): a drawing or diagram that shows the relationship between two or more quantities

The graph showed how many students chose hot dogs, tacos, or pizza for lunch.

10. quotient (n): the answer to a division problem, not including the remainder

Seth easily worked out the quotient for the division problem.

Vocabulary tip

Understanding math words is important to learning math.

33.1 Dinosaur playground

Because so many fossils of dinosaurs have been found in this place, it is sometimes called “the playground of the dinosaurs.” Where is this place?

To answer the question, find the word for each definition below. Choose your answers from the words after the definitions. Write the letter of each answer in the space above its definition number at the bottom of the page. You will need to divide the letters into words. One letter is provided.

1. a question to be solved and answered _____

2. having the same amount, quantity, or value _____

3. a drawing or diagram that shows the relationship between two or more quantities _____

4. a number that names a part of a whole or a part of a group _____

5. a geometric figure with three or more angles and sides _____

6. a guess or opinion about the size, amount, etc. of something _____

7. a number with one or more digits to the right of a decimal point _____

8. the answer to a division problem, not including a remainder _____

9. a unit used to find the length, width, weight, etc. of something _____

10. an answer; an explanation _____

Answers

O. quotient

N. fraction

D. solution

L. problem

T. decimal

U. equal

B. estimate

S. polygon

A. measure

K. graph