Understanding Decimals
Decimals help us represent numbers that aren't whole!
Just like fractions, decimals show parts of a whole number. The decimal point separates the whole number
part from the fractional part. Each place after the decimal point has a special name and value.
Decimal Place Values
1️⃣ Tenths (1 place after the decimal: 0.1 = 1/10)
2️⃣ Hundredths (2 places: 0.01 = 1/100)
3️⃣ Thousandths (3 places: 0.001 = 1/1000)
Let's Practice with Examples!
Example 1: Place Value Explorer
What number is represented below?
3
.
7
2
5
Example 2: Adding Decimals
Solve: 2.45 + 1.3 = ?
Remember to line up the decimal points!
2.45
+1.30
_____
Parent Tips 🌟
- Money makes decimals real: Use dollar amounts to practice adding and subtracting decimals. $1.25 + $0.75 = $2.00 makes perfect sense when counting real coins!
- Kitchen measurements: When cooking together, use recipes with decimal measurements (0.5 cups, 1.25 teaspoons) to show practical applications.
- Decimal scavenger hunt: Look for decimals in the real world - speed limits (25.5 mph), store prices ($3.99), or weather reports (72.5°F).