Overview
These decimal blocks are a modification of base 10 blocks often used for decimal-based activities. They can be used to represent and compare decimals as well as model addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. This modified version adds labels of 0.1 to the 10cm rod and 0.01 to the 1cm cube. There are also smaller pieces created to approximate the size of .001.
MakerSpace Files
All files are included in the Thingiverse link below. Cost estimates are also below. These could be interchangeably used with base 10 blocks, but this version includes the labels on the blocks themselves.
Click here to download the set of files in Thingiverse for modified base 10 blocks.
| grams of PLA per print | Cost ($18 / Kg) per print | Time | |
| Decimal Blocks | 95.26 | $1.71 | 3 hr 44 min |
| 1s Block | 47.26 | $0.85 | 1 hr 26 min |
Note: If you have not read the tutorial post on MakerSpace Manipulatives, please do so.
Examples of Use
Representing Decimals
Below is illustrated the the number 1.143. These concrete manipulatives can be used to help students recognize the magnitude of decimals and then can be supplemented with paper-based decimal squares (which can be used in plastic sheets for ease). A simple extension of representing decimals like this is to have students compare decimals (such as 0.10 and 0.1).
More to come…
