Understanding Decimal Numbers
Decimals are numbers with a whole part and a fractional part, separated by a decimal point.
Just like dollars and cents, decimals help us represent amounts between whole numbers. The first digit after the decimal point represents tenths, the next hundredths, and so on.
4
Ones
.
Point
2
Tenths
5
Hundredths
How to Add and Subtract Decimals
1️⃣ Line up the decimal points - This keeps the place values correct
2️⃣ Add zeros if needed - So both numbers have the same number of decimal places
3️⃣ Add or subtract - Just like with whole numbers, then bring down the decimal point
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Adding Decimals
Calculate: 3.25 + 1.78
Example 2: Subtracting Decimals
Calculate: 5.60 - 2.35
Real-World Example
Emma has \$10.50 and wants to buy a toy for \$7.25. How much money will she have left?
Parent Tips 🌟
- Money makes it real: Use coins and bills to demonstrate decimal addition and subtraction - dollars are whole numbers, cents are decimals.
- Line it up game: Write decimals on sticky notes and have your child physically line them up by the decimal point before calculating.
- Grocery store practice: When shopping, ask your child to add prices or calculate change to reinforce real-world decimal skills.