
Adding and Subtracting Decimals
5th Grade · Math · 45 min· Apply And Extend Previous Understandings Of Numbers To The System Of Rational Numbers
Lesson Preview
Learning Objective
I can add and subtract decimals using models and strategies based on place value.
- 1
When adding or subtracting decimals, the first step is to line up the decimals to ensure that all the places are lined up correctly.
- 2
Placeholder zeros can be added to the right of a decimal without changing its value; this can help to line up the numbers and avoid mistakes when adding or subtracting.
- 3
When subtracting decimals, remember to borrow if the top digit is smaller than the bottom digit; avoid the common mistake of just dropping the bottom number.

