Decimal Conversion

Switching between standard and expanded form using fractions

Understanding Decimal Places

Did you know decimals can be stretched out like rubber bands?
Decimals can be written in two special ways: standard form (like 3.75) and expanded form (like 3 + 7/10 + 5/100). Today we'll learn how to switch between them using fractions!

How to Convert Between Forms

1️⃣ Identify each digit's place value (tenths, hundredths, etc.)

2️⃣ Write each digit as a fraction over 10, 100, 1000 etc.

3️⃣ Combine them with + signs for expanded form

Let's Practice Together!

Example 1: Standard to Expanded Form

Convert 2.46 to expanded form using fractions:

2
Ones
.
4
Tenths
6
Hundredths

Example 2: Expanded to Standard Form

Convert 5 + \(\frac{3}{10}\) + \(\frac{8}{100}\) to standard form:

5 +
3 --- 10
+
8 --- 100

Parent Tips 🌟

  • Money makes it real: Use dollars (ones), dimes (tenths), and pennies (hundredths) to physically represent decimal places.
  • Kitchen fractions: When baking, ask your child to convert measurements like 0.5 cups to 1/2 cup.
  • Place value hopscotch: Draw a hopscotch with decimal places and have your child jump to the correct spot when you call out numbers.

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