Number Lines with Decimals
Number lines help us understand the size and position of decimal numbers by placing them between whole numbers.
What You Need to Know
Key Concept Diagram
Each space between consecutive whole numbers on a number line can be divided into tenths or hundredths
To place 3.7 on a number line, locate 3 then count 7 tenths toward 4
Decimals can be compared by their position: numbers further right are larger
Rounding decimals on a number line: if the digit is 5 or more, round up; if less than 5, round down
Key Vocabulary
Decimal
A number written with a decimal point to show parts of a whole (e.g. 2.5)
Tenth
One of ten equal parts of a whole; written as 0.1
Hundredth
One of one hundred equal parts of a whole; written as 0.01
Rounding
Replacing a number with a nearby value that is easier to work with
Knowledge Check
Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.
Question 1
On a number line from 0 to 1, where would you place 0.4?
Question 2
Round 4.67 to the nearest tenth.
Question 3
Which decimal is between 2.3 and 2.4 on a number line?
Key Concepts Summary
- ●Each space between consecutive whole numbers on a number line can be divided into tenths or hundredths
- ●To place 3.7 on a number line, locate 3 then count 7 tenths toward 4
- ●Decimals can be compared by their position: numbers further right are larger
- ●Rounding decimals on a number line: if the digit is 5 or more, round up; if less than 5, round down