Definition:

Completing missing numbers in whole thousands involves identifying the missing value in a sequence or equation where numbers are rounded to the nearest thousand. This skill helps to reinforce an understanding of place value and numerical relationships.

Example 1:

Fill in the missing number: 2000+_=5000

Solution:

• Identify the difference between 5000 and 2000: 5000−2000=3000
• The missing number is: 3000

Answer: 2000+3000=5000

Example 2:

Find the missing number: _+4000=8000

Solution:

• Subtract 4000 from 8000: 8000−4000=4000
• The missing number is: 4000

Answer: 4000+4000=8000

Example 3:

Complete the sequence: 3000,_,7000,9000

Solution:

• Find the difference between the consecutive terms: 7000−3000=4000 (difference of 2000 between terms)7000 - 3000 = 4000
• Add 2000 to 3000 to find the missing number: 3000+2000=5000
• The completed sequence is: 3000, 5000, 7000, 9000

Answer: The missing number is 5000.

Example 4:

Complete the sequence: 6000, 8000,_,12,000

Solution:

• Determine the difference between consecutive terms: 8000−6000=2000 Each step increases by 2000.
• Add 2000 to 8000 to find the missing number: 8000+2000=10,000

Answer: The completed sequence is: 6000, 8000, 10,000, 12,000

Why it matters:

Understanding how to complete missing numbers in whole thousands reinforces place value knowledge and numerical reasoning. It helps students solve real-world problems like budgeting, inventory management, or data analysis. This skill also builds a strong foundation for tackling more advanced mathematical concepts and operations.

By practicing missing numbers, you can solve real-world problems quickly!

Let’s practice and evaluate your work together by missing numbers.