Decimal Fraction Board
Decimal Fraction Board introduces a child aged 6 to 12 to the formation of decimal numbers and guides them through addition, subtraction and multiplication with decimal and whole numbers side by side. Built from cardboard and laminated paper marked with the familiar hierarchical color scheme, the board gives place value a visible, countable structure instead of an abstract rule to memorize. As an AMI aligned Nienhuis mathematics material, it bridges the concrete bead work of the decimal system into the symbolic arithmetic the child masters next on the Faborino shelf.
“The hands are the instruments of man's intelligence.”
The Decimal Fraction Board serves as a bridge between whole number understanding and the abstract world of decimal fractions. Each of the ten columns on this laminated board creates a visual pathway from concrete quantity to abstract decimal notation, allowing children to physically see how numbers extend beyond whole units. The colored circles on the Decimal Fraction Board transform invisible decimal relationships into tangible patterns that children can manipulate and explore.
- Understanding decimal place value from ten-thousandths to tens
- Converting between fractions and decimal notation
- Performing addition and subtraction with decimal numbers
- Recognizing patterns in decimal number sequences
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This mathematical material addresses the developmental need for visual and kinesthetic learning when encountering fractions smaller than one. The board's systematic arrangement from ten-thousandths to tens reveals the consistent base-ten pattern that governs our number system. By working with the Decimal Fraction Board, children discover that decimals follow the same organizational principles as whole numbers, just extending in the opposite direction. The laminated surface ensures durability for repeated exploration as children build their understanding through hands-on manipulation.
How to present it
Follow the Montessori method of presentation for optimal child development.
Place the Decimal Fraction Board on a flat surface with the decimal point clearly visible. Gather colored circles or counters that correspond to the board's markings. Have paper and pencil ready for recording work.
- 1
Begin by placing one circle in the 'ones' column to establish the unit
Always start with concrete whole numbers before introducing decimals - 2
Move one circle to the 'tenths' column and discuss how this represents one-tenth of the whole
Use language like 'one part of ten equal parts' - 3
Continue placing circles in different columns, naming each decimal place
Emphasize the pattern: each column to the right is ten times smaller - 4
Create decimal numbers using multiple circles across columns
Start with simple decimals like 0.5 or 0.25 before complex ones - 5
Record the decimal numbers created on paper, matching the visual to the abstract
Have children say the number aloud as they write
Every Child Is a Little Creator
Heritage
Since 1929
Brands used by
schools worldwide
European brands
AMI
Endorsed
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