Mathematics
Grade 6
15 min
Add and subtract decimals
Add and subtract decimals
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify the place value of digits in decimal numbers.
Correctly align decimal points when setting up addition and subtraction problems.
Add decimals with varying numbers of decimal places.
Subtract decimals with varying numbers of decimal places, including those requiring borrowing.
Solve real-world problems involving the addition and subtraction of decimals.
Estimate sums and differences of decimals to check for reasonableness.
Ever wonder how much change you'll get back at the store 💰 or how to combine ingredients for a recipe 🍰? Decimals are everywhere!
In this lesson, you'll learn how to confidently add and subtract decimals. Mastering these skills is essential for managing money, understanding measurements, and solving everyday math pro...
2
Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
DecimalA number that uses a decimal point to represent parts of a whole, where digits to the right of the decimal point represent fractions with denominators that are powers of 10.3.14, 0.5, 12.075 are all decimals.
Decimal PointThe dot that separates the whole number part from the fractional part (parts of a whole) in a decimal number.In the number 5.25, the dot between the 5 and the 2 is the decimal point.
Place ValueThe value of a digit based on its position in a number. For decimals, positions to the right of the decimal point represent tenths, hundredths, thousandths, and so on.In 12.34, the '3' is in the tenths place, and the '4' is in the hundredths place.
Tenths PlaceThe first digit to the right of the decimal point, representing a value o...
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Core Formulas
Rule for Adding Decimals
1. Align the decimal points vertically. 2. Add placeholder zeros to the end of numbers so they all have the same number of decimal places. 3. Add the digits in each column, starting from the rightmost column, carrying over when necessary. 4. Place the decimal point in the sum directly below the aligned decimal points in the problem.
Use this rule to find the total value when combining two or more decimal numbers. It's crucial for ensuring that you add corresponding place values correctly.
Rule for Subtracting Decimals
1. Align the decimal points vertically. 2. Add placeholder zeros to the end of numbers so they all have the same number of decimal places. 3. Subtract the digits in each column, starting from the rightmost column, borrowing when nece...
5 more steps in this tutorial
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Sign Up Free to ContinueSample Practice Questions
Challenging
A student was asked to subtract 5.34 from 20. They set up the problem and got an answer of 15.34. Which common pitfall did the student fall into?
A.Incorrect borrowing across multiple place values.
B.Misplacing the decimal point in the answer.
C.Forgetting to align the decimal points.
D.Adding instead of subtracting.
Challenging
Jamal is saving for a video game that costs $59.99. He has $21.50 in his piggy bank and gets $15.75 for his allowance. After combining his money, how much more does he need to save?
A.$37.25
B.$22.74
C.$38.49
D.$44.24
Challenging
The sum of two decimal numbers is 20.5. Their difference is 4.3. What are the two numbers?
A.12.5 and 8.0
B.11.9 and 8.6
C.13.2 and 7.3
D.12.4 and 8.1
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