Class 5 Maths - ICSE
Decimals
In this Class 5 ICSE Mathematics chapter on Decimals, students learn about numbers that have a whole number part and a fractional part separated by a decimal point. Building on fractions, this chapter covers place value of decimals, reading and writing decimal numbers, and converting fractions to decimals. Students will master the four fundamental operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of decimals—as well as their practical applications in measuring money, length, weight, and capacity. This chapter is fundamental for board exams, frequently appearing in simplification and word problems, laying the groundwork for higher-level arithmetic and algebra.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Decimal Place Value
The digits to the right of the decimal point represent fractions of ten, moving from tenths (1/10), hundredths (1/100), to thousandths (1/1000).
Like and Unlike Decimals
Like decimals have the exact same number of decimal places, whereas unlike decimals have a different number of decimal places.
Converting Fractions to Decimals
Fractions with denominators of 10, 100, or 1000 can be easily converted to decimals by placing the decimal point based on the number of zeros.
Addition and Subtraction of Decimals
To add or subtract decimals, always align the decimal points vertically and add zeros to make them like decimals if needed.
Multiplication and Division by Powers of 10
Multiplying a decimal by 10, 100, or 1000 shifts the decimal point to the right, while dividing shifts it to the left.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In ICSE Class 5 Mathematics examinations, the chapter on Decimals typically carries around 6 to 10 marks. Common question types include converting fractions to decimals, ordering and comparing decimal numbers, column addition and subtraction, word problems involving money and metric measures (rupees/paise, meters/centimeters), and multiplying or dividing decimals by whole numbers and powers of 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I compare two decimal numbers?
First compare the whole number parts. If they are equal, compare the tenths digits, then the hundredths digits, and so on from left to right.
Why can we add zeros to the end of a decimal number?
Adding zeros to the very right of a decimal number (like changing 0.5 to 0.50) does not change its value because it just adds place holders in empty decimal columns.
Where should I place the decimal point when adding or subtracting?
Always line up the decimal points directly underneath each other in a vertical column before you start calculating.
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