CCSS.Math.Content.4.NF.C.7
The standard
Compare two decimals to hundredths by reasoning about their size. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two decimals refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with the symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual model.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Number and Operations—Fractions
What this standard means
Students need to compare decimals like 0.4, 0.40, 0.36, and 0.63 by thinking about tenths and hundredths. They should know both decimals must describe parts of the same whole, not different sized wholes. They also need to use >, <, and = correctly and explain their thinking with a model, number line, place value chart, or words.
Mastery looks like a student saying 0.7 = 0.70 or 0.58 < 0.6 because 58 hundredths is less than 60 hundredths. Common trouble spots are comparing digits left to right without place value, thinking more decimal places means a bigger number, and ignoring the size of the whole.
Ways to teach it
- Have students shade hundred grids for pairs like 0.45 and 0.5, then compare the shaded amounts with >, <, or =.
- Ask students to explain in writing: Is 0.6 greater than 0.58, or is 0.58 greater, and how do you know?
- Give four decimal pairs on exit tickets and ask students to compare each pair and draw one quick model to justify one answer.
- Compare prices under one dollar, like $0.75 and $0.8, and ask which item costs more and why.
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Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.5.NBT.A.3b
Compare two decimals to thousandths based on meanings of the digits in each place, using >, =, and < symbols to record the results of comparisons.
- CCSS.Math.Content.3.NF.A.3d
Compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator by reasoning about their size. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two frac...
- CCSS.Math.Content.4.NF.A.2
Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark ...
- CCSS.Math.Content.2.NBT.A.4
Compare two three-digit numbers based on meanings of the hundreds, tens, and ones digits, using >, =, and < symbols to record the results of comparisons.