Go back See all

    Comparing Decimals: Which Is Bigger, Faster, Farther?

    from

    Subject: Math

    Lesson Length: 30 - 45 mins

    Topic: Comparing Decimals to the Thousandths

    Grade Level: 5

    Standards / Framework:

    Brief Description: In this lesson, students will compare decimals to the thousandths >, <, = by comparing weight, speed, or distance in a comic.

    Know Before You Start: Students should already know how to read decimals to the thousandths and be familiar with comparing values of decimals. You will need decimal cards, e.g., index cards with random decimal numbers written on them, up to the thousandths place.

    Hook:

    • Read and discuss the sample comic.
    • Do you agree with the decimal comparison? How do you know?

    Activity:

    • Have each student choose two decimal cards.

    • Using the sample comic as a guide, have students create a three-to-four-panel comic, in which two characters compare their decimals in the context of weight, speed, or distance.

    • Remind students to:

      • Use >, <, = to compare their decimals.

      • Justify/explain their comparison.

    Closure:

    • Have students share their comic with a partner. Partners will state if they agree with the decimal comparison.

    Differentiation:

    • Allow students to use the speech-to-text feature.
    • Allow students to use the voiceover feature to read their comics aloud.

    • Display a class created anchor chart on comparing decimals.

    • Adjust the decimal values to meet individual needs.

    Resources:

    • Comic to print or display
    • Teacher created decimal cards

    Suggested Content Packs:

    Related Ideas

    Dare to Compare: Comparing Fractions

    In this lesson, students will work in pairs to explain how to create common denominators and compare fractions. Students will show the calculations used to create common denominators on a separate worksheet.

    3D Shapes

    In this lesson, students will have the opportunity to practice using language to describe the basic features of three dimensional shapes. Students will use key vocabulary to compare and discuss shapes.

    Comparing Numbers

    In this lesson, students will read and write numbers in base-ten numerals, number names, and expanded form. Students will also compare numbers using >, <, = symbols.