Understanding Decimal Place Value: Constructing a Place Value Chart

This lesson explores the relationship between decimal and whole number place values. It explains how each decimal place is related by constructing a place value chart. The lesson addresses common misunderstandings about decimal notation and demonstrates how each place value is 10 times larger or smaller than its neighboring place. By using models and examples, the lesson illustrates the consistent relationship between decimal and whole number place values.

How does the position of a digit in a number affect its value?

What is a common misunderstanding students have regarding decimal numerals?

Describe how the decimal place value system is constructed starting with the thousandths place.

Explain the relationship between the thousandths place and the hundredths place.

How is the value of the tenths place related to the hundredths place?

In what way are the relationships among decimal place values similar to whole number place values?

What happens to the value of each place as you move from left to right in the decimal system?