Understanding Decimal Addition and Subtraction
Decimals are everywhere!
Whether you're counting money, measuring ingredients, or checking temperatures, decimals help us be precise. Adding and subtracting decimals is just like working with whole numbers - the key is to line up those decimal points!
Simple Steps to Success
1️⃣ Line up the decimal points (add zeros if needed)
2️⃣ Add or subtract just like whole numbers
3️⃣ Bring down the decimal point in your answer
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Shopping Spree
Emma bought a toy for $12.75 and a book for $8.95. How much did she spend in total?
12.75 + 8.95 =
Remember: Line up the decimals and add just like whole numbers!
Example 2: Race Time
Liam ran 100 meters in 15.8 seconds. His friend ran it in 14.95 seconds. How much faster was Liam's friend?
15.80 - 14.95 =
Tip: Adding a zero to 15.8 makes subtraction easier (15.80 - 14.95).
Parent Tips 🌟
- Money makes it real: Use grocery receipts or online shopping carts to practice adding and subtracting decimal prices together.
- Decimal detective: Have your child find decimals around the house (thermometers, measuring cups, food labels) and create their own problems.
- Estimation first: Before calculating exact answers, encourage estimating whether the answer should be larger or smaller than the original numbers.