How to Convey Decimals in Words

Hey there, young explorers! Today, we’re going on a fun journey to understand decimals. But wait, we’re not just going to look at numbers; we’re going to learn how to say them using words! By the end of this post, you’ll be a pro at understanding and talking about decimals. Let’s dive in!

What is a Decimal?

First things first, what is a decimal? A decimal is a way to represent a number that is not a whole number. It’s like a fraction, but instead of using a fraction bar, we use a dot called a “decimal point.” For example, the number 0.5 is half of 1, and it’s the same as the fraction ½.

The Decimal Point:

The dot in a decimal number is called the “decimal point.” Everything to the left of the decimal point is a whole number, and everything to the right represents parts of a whole.

For example, in the number 12.34, 12 is the whole number, and .34 is the decimal part.

Reading Decimals in Words:

Now, let’s learn how to say decimals using words:

1. Tenths Place: The first number to the right of the decimal point is in the “tenths” place. For example, in the number 0.3, the 3 is in the tenths place. We read it as “three-tenths.”
2. Hundredths Place: The second number to the right of the decimal point is in the “hundredths” place. For example, in the number 0.25, the 5 is in the hundredths place. We read the number as “twenty-five hundredths.”
3. Thousandths Place: The third number to the right of the decimal point is in the “thousandths” place. For example, in the number 0.123, the 3 is in the thousandths place. We read the number as “one hundred twenty-three thousandths.”

Practice Time:

Let’s practice reading some decimals:

• 0.4 = Four-tenths
• 0.67 = Sixty-seven hundredths
• 0.089 = Eighty-nine thousandths

Decimals are super cool, aren’t they? Now, whenever you see a decimal number, you’ll know how to say it using words. Remember, the key is to look at the place value of each number after the decimal point. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be a decimal master!

Fun Activity:

Ask a friend or family member to write down a decimal number for you. Try to say the number using words. Then, switch roles and let them try. It’s a fun way to practice together!