What happens to the value of a single digit as we move to the left of a number?  Look at the number below to reflect on this thought.

258,457

Now think about a decimal number. What happens to the value for each digit in a decimal number as we move left?

2.587 

Look at the stopwatch below. Watch the numbers count up.

Which digits are moving the fastest? Why?

Now, look at the video below and think about speed. The video compares the fastest runners to the slowest runners. What do you notice about the value of the time of the runners who are fastest? What do you notice about the value of the time of the runners that are slowest?

How did this post help you understand place value more?

Place value can be tricky because of the confusing patterns that exist. Look at the number below. Now think of the place value of the different digits. What patterns do you notice?

132.502

The decimal always throws us off. Now look at the graphic below.

The graphic shows a couple of things. The ones place is a starting point for place value. The pattern for place value is reflected on both sides of the ones place. What is the pattern? This type of reflection is called symmetry. Everything revolves around the ones place.

Today we began to look at numbers and the value of digits in a number. I used the metaphor of stadium seats (Note: Mr. Rodger’s idea.). Many of you know your position in a stadium determines the value of your seat. If you could choose 2 seats at Safeco Field for a game, based on the picture below, what would you choose? Think about the seats you picked and choose 2 new seats with a higher value. Last, pick 2 seats that would have a value less than the starting tickets. Can you describe how the position in the stadium affects the value of the ticket?

Now let’s think about that in terms of a number. Which number below has the greatest value? Which has the smallest? How does the position of the digit affect the value of that digit?

222,222