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Year 5 - Maths

Describe and write decimal numbers with tenths in different ways

Understand tenths as part of a whole, represent and calculate mentally

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will describe, represent and order tenths as a decimal fraction. They will round a decimal number with tenths to the nearest whole number and calculate mentally with decimal numbers including tenths.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe and write decimal numbers with tenths in different ways.

Key Notes

  • Tenths can label parts of a whole divided into ten equal parts.
  • Tenths can be positions on a numberline between whole numbers.
  • Tenths can be recorded as fractions and decimals on a number line.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • tenth: A tenth is the name you give to one part of ten equal parts.
  • decimal number: A decimal number has a decimal point followed by digits that show the fractional part.
  • fraction: A fraction shows us how many equal parts in a whole.
  • mixed number: A number which combines both a whole number and a fraction is known as a mixed number.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils write whole numbers as tenths incorrectly, for example as eight tenths not eighty tenths.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

Tenths can label parts of a whole divided into ten equal parts. Tenths can be positions on a numberline between whole numbers.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'tenth'

A tenth is the name you give to one part of ten equal parts. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Pupils write whole numbers as tenths incorrectly, for example as eight tenths not eighty tenths. Correction: Reiterate that ten tenths are equal to one whole so twenty tenths are equal to two wholes. Continue this to build generalisation.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 Maths guide library.