One of the easiest ways I’ve found to teach first-year students how to add and subtract decimals is to line up the decimal points. Here’s how to do it:
Stack the numbers: Write the decimals one on top of the other. Make sure their decimal points are lined up.
Fill in gaps: If a decimal has fewer numbers, add zeros to the right. This makes them the same length.
Do the math: Add or subtract like regular numbers, starting from the right side and moving left.
This method helps you see the numbers clearly. It makes it easier to keep track of the values. Plus, it helps prevent mistakes with where the numbers go!
One of the easiest ways I’ve found to teach first-year students how to add and subtract decimals is to line up the decimal points. Here’s how to do it:
Stack the numbers: Write the decimals one on top of the other. Make sure their decimal points are lined up.
Fill in gaps: If a decimal has fewer numbers, add zeros to the right. This makes them the same length.
Do the math: Add or subtract like regular numbers, starting from the right side and moving left.
This method helps you see the numbers clearly. It makes it easier to keep track of the values. Plus, it helps prevent mistakes with where the numbers go!