Unit: Decoding Decimals and Fractions - Lesson 2 of 4

Grade: 4th Grade
Duration: 45 minutes
Class Size: 5 Students
Common Core State Standards:

• CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.C.7 – Understand decimal notation for fractions, and compare decimal fractions.
• CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.C.7.C – Use decimal notation to compare two decimals to the hundredths place.

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Learning Objectives (I Can Statements)

• I can compare two decimal numbers to the hundredths place using place value.
• I can use the symbols >, =, or < to show which decimal is greater or if they are equal.
• I can explain my reasoning for comparing decimals using number lines or place value concepts.

Success Criteria

• Students will correctly compare pairs of decimals and use comparison symbols (> , = , <) appropriately.
• Students collaboratively create an anchor chart that clearly outlines steps to compare decimals.
• Students will demonstrate understanding by explaining comparison reasoning verbally or in writing.

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Materials Needed

• Whiteboard or chart paper for anchor chart
• Markers (different colors)
• Printed number lines with decimals marked (for each student, especially for Jaze)
• Video player or computer for decimal comparison video
• Dry erase boards and markers for students
• Worksheet with decimal comparison pairs
• Dyslexia-friendly font printouts of anchor chart and worksheet
• Writing paper and pencils

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Lesson Breakdown

1. Warm-Up & Review (5 minutes)

• Review previous lesson content on decimal notation and place value to the hundredths.
• Quick oral quiz: Ask students to read aloud decimals like 0.34, 0.07, 0.89.
• Use “I can” check-in: “I can say decimal numbers to the hundredths place.”

Differentiation: Use visual aids and repeat decimals multiple ways (spoken, written, and visual).

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2. Video Introduction (7 minutes)

• Show a short, clear video that explains how to compare decimals by looking at place value (tenths, hundredths) and comparing digit by digit.
• Dyslexia-friendly: Turn on captions and provide a written transcript for students who benefit from reading along.

Teacher Tip: Pause video at key points to check understanding and ask guiding questions ("What do we look at first?").

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3. Creating the Anchor Chart (8 minutes)

• As a class, co-create an anchor chart titled "How To Compare Decimals."
• Steps could include:
  1. Look at the tenths place.
  2. If tenths are equal, look at the hundredths place.
  3. Use >, =, or < to show comparison.
  4. Verify with a number line if unsure.
• Use color coding and symbols to reinforce concepts visually.

Differentiation: For Jaze and other visual learners, include a sample number line on the chart.

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4. Mini-Lesson: Number Lines & Place Value (10 minutes)

• Demonstrate using a large number line from 0.00 to 1.00 on the board. Mark 0.45, 0.50, 0.47, etc.
• Ask students to identify which decimal is larger by their position on the number line.
• Review place value by writing decimals vertically and comparing digits.

Differentiation: Offer number line handouts to all students; allow Jaze to physically point or move markers to represent decimals.

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5. Partner Practice Activity (10 minutes)

• Students pair up to compare decimal pairs using dry erase boards and number lines.
• Encourage them to say their thinking aloud using “I can compare decimals because...”
• Circulate and provide immediate feedback or scaffolding.

Extension for Advanced Learners: Students write a short explanation for one pair, detailing why one decimal is greater, equal, or less than the other.

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6. Wrap-Up & Reflection (5 minutes)

• Gather students to share one new thing they learned about comparing decimals.
• Review success criteria and have students self-assess using “I can…” statements.
• Collect worksheets for informal assessment of understanding.

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Differentiation Strategies

• Visual learners: Number lines, colored place values, anchor chart with visuals and symbols.
• Kinesthetic learners: Physical number line manipulatives, drawing decimals and comparing side by side.
• Dyslexic learners: Dyslexia-friendly fonts on worksheets/anchor charts, oral instructions supported by written cues, captions on videos.
• English Language Learners: Use clear and simple language, visual supports, peer buddy system.

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Extensions for Advanced Learners

• Write explanations of decimal comparisons in complete sentences, focusing on vocabulary like “tenths,” “hundredths,” “greater than,” and “less than.”
• Create a small quiz with 3 more complex decimal pairs to compare independently.
• Introduce word problems where students use decimal comparison to make decisions (e.g., shopping scenarios).

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Assessment

• Informal: Observation of student participation and use of comparison symbols during partner work.
• Formal: Worksheet containing 8-10 decimal pairs for comparison. Students use >, =, or < correctly.
• Written explanation from advanced learners reviewed for reasoning and vocabulary use.

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Reflection Notes for Teacher

• Monitor student comfort with concepts of place value and number line before moving deeper.
• Use anchor chart and video as ongoing resources in the unit for reinforcement.
• Provide extra support or revisit vocabulary as needed for struggling students.

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This thoughtfully paced plan balances visual, verbal, and kinesthetic approaches to meet diverse needs while meeting rigorous Common Core standards for decimal comparison in 4th grade math.