Believe me when I say that teaching decimals to 4th Graders can sometimes be a challenge! It is hard for fourth grade math students to grasp place value, much less decimals and their places. While it may be typical for students to struggle with decimals and place value, it doesn’t have to be the norm!
Learning about decimals and their place value is an extremely important skill, especially when students transition to learning about fractions and percentages along with basic number and money sense.
First, I begin by reviewing with students that a decimal is less than one or less than the whole thing. Then I slowly build for understanding using place value. It is important that the students visually see that tenths and hundredths are just a small part of the whole thing.
When teaching students how to read and write decimals, creating a visual chart like this can be helpful. Remind students that the decimal is said as “and” when reading a whole number with decimals.
After using place value, then we move to ordering them on a number line, eventually comparing to adding/subtracting decimals. My last step is to practice and introduce multiplying and dividing decimals.
Introduce or practice decimals with students with my freebie here. Students will practice adding and reviewing decimals. This is a great way to determine where your students are at and their understanding of place value.
If you’ve been around here for very long, then I’m sure you know what my FAVORITE way to introduce or review a new concept is through catchy songs.
Number Rock has some great videos that will have your students up on their feet, moving to the beat, all while they learn about decimals and their places.
Check them out! Decimal Place Value, and Rounding Decimals are sure to be hit in your classroom!
Once students have a stronger understanding of decimals, then it’s time to move to Comparing and Ordering them. And as always, you can count on Tricia for engaging resources.
I love using this decimals resource in math centers, small groups, as homework and even during asynchronous work. Your 4th and 5th graders will be so engaged with 14 different activities. And to make your life easier, I’ve also included two parent communication forms along with an anchor chart.
What more could you want?!
Your students may turn into math lovers after all! Happy teaching!
Check out my Beginning Decimals Resource below.
You can always “COUNT ON ME” for engaging, differentiated math resources to help every student shine!
