Read decimals to tenths

This understanding connects decimal notation to tenths as equal parts of one whole: a number such as 3.7 represents three wholes and seven tenths, and can be read as “three and seven tenths” or “three point seven.” The learner interprets tenths on a number line or in relation to money, understands that the digit immediately right of the decimal point names tenths, and does not extend this reading to hundredths or more advanced decimal representations.

Detailed Explanation: Read decimals to tenths

A decimal shows parts of one whole. The digit immediately to the right of the decimal point tells how many tenths there are.

Example: Read $(3.7)$

The $3$ is to the left of the decimal point, so it means 3 wholes.
The $7$ is immediately to the right of the decimal point, so it means 7 tenths.
Put the parts together:

3.7 = 3\text{ wholes and }7\text{ tenths}

You can read $(3.7)$ in two ways:

three and seven tenths
three point seven

Think of one whole divided into $(10)$ equal parts. Each part is one tenth, and $(3.7)$ means 3 wholes plus 7 of those tenths.

Learn by doing: Read decimals to tenths

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Place Value (Decimals) - Normal Form to Expanded (Words)

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