Place value is crucial for understanding arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It allows us to understand the digit’s worth based on its position within a number.
This key concept is introduced in early elementary school, primarily in first and second grade. Students begin by learning about ones, tens, and hundreds. In 3rd and 4th grade place values are expanded to include thousands, ten thousands, and beyond. Mastering place value provides the foundation for understanding more complex mathematical concepts.
An example of place value is as follows:
- In the number 523, the ‘5’ represents 5 hundreds, or 500.
- In the number 352, the ‘5’ represents 5 tens, or 50.
A digit’s worth changes depending on where it is located. In the above case the ‘5’ is in the hundred’s place for the number 523 and in the tens place for the number 352. If you move the 5, you change the value of the number.
This concept can be a confusing one. We have worksheets to help you with teaching children and practicing the concept.
