Printable Place Value Chart and Activity Ideas 4th 5th Grade

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Printable Place Value Chart and Activity Ideas for 4th & 5th Grade: Making Decimals Stick

Hands-on ways to make decimal place value fun, memorable, and meaningful!

Decimals can be a tricky concept for upper elementary students—especially when they’re moving from whole numbers into tenths, hundredths, and beyond. I still remember the first time I introduced decimals to my class. Cue the blank stares.

Over time, though, I discovered simple strategies that helped make decimals click—and even fun!

👉 Before you dive in, grab this free printable decimal place value chart to help your students anchor their learning from day one.

Click HERE.

Engaging Ways to Teach Decimal Place Value in Grades 4–5

1. Use real-world examples

One of the best ways to help decimals make sense is to connect them to everyday life. My go-to? Money.

• Set up a classroom store and have students shop using prices like $1.49 or $0.75.
• Or try a mock banking system where they deposit and withdraw using decimals.

These real-world tie-ins make decimals feel useful—and relevant.

2. Create interactive place value charts

Paper charts are fine, but interactive ones are even better.

I like to make large wall charts with pockets or dry-erase sections so students can physically move a “1” from tenths to hundredths. When they see and move the numbers, their understanding deepens.

3. Use math journals for reflection

• Have students keep a math journal where they:
• Explain what they learned about decimals
• Draw visual models
• Record examples of decimals in real life (e.g., gas prices, receipts)

It’s a simple way to reinforce and personalize their learning.

4. Differentiate with manipulatives and challenges

Not every student learns the same way—so don’t teach decimals just one way.

• Use base-ten blocks or place value discs for concrete learners.
• Let advanced students calculate sale prices or restaurant tips using decimals.

This kind of flexible instruction helps every learner grow.

5. Try peer teaching

Pair students up! One explains the concept to the other.

The “teacher” gains confidence and clarity, while the learner hears it in a new voice. I’ve seen shy students blossom during these kinds of activities.

6. Display anchor charts as reference tools

Keep a decimal anchor chart on your wall as a go-to support.

Include visuals, expanded forms, and real-life examples. When students get stuck, it’s a quick visual reminder that helps them get unstuck.

Printable Decimal Place Value Worksheets

Need something ready to print and go? I created a Decimal Place Value Worksheet Packet that includes:

• Standard, expanded, and word form practice
• Writing decimals with exponents
• Real-world problem-solving

These worksheets are perfect for independent work, math centers, or review days.
👉 Click HERE.

Final Tip: Don’t rush it! Revisit decimal place value often—especially when teaching measurement, money, or data. The more connections students make, the more confident they’ll feel.

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