Comparing numbers
Compare fractions and decimals
Compare a displayed fraction with a finite decimal, preserving exact values even when the fraction has a recurring decimal expansion.
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Compare decimals
Compare decimal values displayed with one to three decimal places, including equal values, close pairs and changes in place value.
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Align the decimal points mentally or on scrap paper. Compare from the greatest place to the first different digit, then write <, > or =.
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Learning objective
What this activity builds
Use whole-number places, tenths, hundredths and thousandths to compare the exact displayed decimals.
Worked example
Which sign belongs in 9.05 __ 9.1?
9.05 < 9.1.
Both numbers have 9 ones. Write 9.1 as 9.10 for comparison: 5 hundredths is less than 10 hundredths. Adding the trailing zero changes the notation, not the value.
Teaching notes
Make the practice count
- Read decimals with place-value words, such as five hundredths, before comparing the digit strings.
- Use 3.3 and 0.33 to discuss how moving a digit to another place changes its value.
- Positive decimal practice is the starting point. Negative settings also require understanding which value lies farther left on a number line.
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Related activities
Comparing numbers
Compare integers
Compare positive or negative integers with <, > or =, using a focused digit width, numbers from 1 to 20, or selected mixed widths.
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