Max Maths, Year 5, Practice, Written methods

In the Max Maths Year 5 practice session on written methods, students are encouraged to enhance their addition skills using the column method. The exercise begins by asking them to find an estimate before proceeding with the precise calculation. They are presented with pairs of numbers that include two decimal places, such as 339.75 and 113.62, and are instructed to add them together. This process is repeated with various other pairs of numbers, including 571.11 plus 229.99, 255.55 plus 244.44, 427.47 plus 266.36, and 651.23 plus 189.97. These exercises are designed to provide students with ample practice in accurately adding decimal numbers using a structured approach.

Further interactive learning is encouraged by having students work in small groups. Each group member is tasked with writing down a five-digit number that includes two decimal places. They then add their number to the numbers of each group member. This activity serves a dual purpose: it helps students identify which combination yields the smallest and greatest sums, and it also promotes teamwork and communication. Students are required to record their findings in their maths journals, thus reinforcing the learning process. An example provided shows two five-digit numbers, 227.78 and 236.24, and prompts students to calculate the sum of these numbers. This hands-on approach not only solidifies the students' understanding of decimal addition but also encourages collaboration and discussion among peers.