Decimals - Add and Subtract Decimals with Different Decimal Places - Planning

In the second week of the summer term for Year 5, students delve into the world of decimals, focusing specifically on adding and subtracting decimals with varying numbers of decimal places. The lesson starts with a small step starter, where children are encouraged to complete 'fluent in four' questions to refresh their memory of previous learning in addition and subtraction. The class teaching input utilises resources such as a place value chart, counters, worksheets, and a presentation to guide students through the process. The objective is to have the children confidently tackle word problems that require them to discern whether to add or subtract, and how to handle different decimal places.

During Activity 1, students are presented with a word problem and must determine the appropriate operation—addition or subtraction. A bar model may be used to aid those finding it difficult. They practice writing and solving calculations on a whiteboard, ensuring that they align the digits correctly. In Activity 2, a subtraction word problem is introduced, and students must identify and correct the potential miscalculations presented to them. The session is rounded off with independent work through differentiated worksheets and a plenary that encourages self-reflection using the 'Give me five' technique, where students evaluate what they've learned and identify areas they found challenging or helpful. The worksheets are tailored to different levels of understanding, from simple calculations without exchanges to more complex two-step word problems, ensuring that every student is catered to according to their ability.