Math · Stage 5
Decimals to thousandths; add, subtract, multiply and order decimals
A decimal keeps going past hundredths to <b>thousandths</b> (0.001). Give decimals the same number of places, then compare and order them just like whole numbers.
✦ Math📘 Stage 5 · S5⏱ ~13 min🧒 Ages 9–10★ Free to start
I can read, write and order decimals to thousandths.
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Kavi and the Photo Finish 🏁
Two runners cross the line almost together! "The clock reads 9.586 and 9.6 seconds," hoots Kavi. "To find the winner I must read decimals all the way to the thousandths — and remember that 9.586 is less than 9.600, so it is the faster time! ⏱️"
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What your child will learn
1Each place is ten times smallerAfter the decimal point come tenths (0.1), then hundredths (0.01), then thousandths (0.001). Each step to the right is ten times smaller. Tap each row to hear it.
2Pad with zeros, then compareA longer-looking decimal is not always bigger. The trick is to give both the same number of decimal places by adding zeros on the right, then compare them like whole numbers. Tap each card.
3Less than or more than one half?
4Add, subtract and multiply decimalsTo add or subtract, line up the decimal points (pad with zeros) and work column by column. To multiply by 10, 100 or 1000, slide the point one, two or three places to the right. Tap each row.
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A peek inside
Which is greater: 0.4 or 0.375?
give both three places: 0.400 and 0.375; compare 400 and 375
Try this at home: Write four and nine thousandths as a decimal. → __
Ready to play and learn?
Start the free interactive lesson, or print the handout for screen-free play.
Part of Math · Stage 5 · S5 on KAVI Academy — a secular, whole-child learning platform for ages 5–12.