Two runners each ran part of a lap: one ran 0.6 of the lap, the other ran 0.45 of the lap. Who ran further?
Trust your gut first. Then think again: 0.45 has more digits written down. Does having more digits always make a number bigger?
Each pair of decimals is shown as markers on the same number line. Before each pair, predict which one sits further to the right. Notice what is true when a number looks longer or has an extra zero.
Today we work through these pairs together, one pair at a time on the board, dragging both markers onto the same line and reading which one sits further right: 0.32 and 0.4, then 0.08 and 0.8, then 0.65 and 0.6, then 0.9 and 0.90. Your teacher loads each pair in turn, so watch the board for the next one. That last pair is the one to watch. Before each reveal, predict out loud which marker will land further right.
In your maths copy, write each pair of decimals one above the other with the decimal points lined up straight. Then place the correct sign between them (< , = or >) and circle the bigger one. If a pair is equal, write the equals sign and don't circle either.
Today's challenge round: place the bigger of each pair on the line. We build up: 0.3 and 0.7, then 0.08 and 0.1, then 1.45 and 1.5, then the stretch, place a decimal that is bigger than 0.4 but smaller than 0.45.
Each prompt sets its own line, so read the numbers under the line before you drag. Predict where your marker lands before you check.
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