Money Word Problems (Simple Decimals) Lesson Plan

Introduction

As a hook, ask students if they have ever bought something at a store and used coins or bills to pay. How do they figure out how much money they need or how much change they should get back? Refer to the last page of the guided notes for real-life examples and the FAQs below for additional ideas to spark discussion.

Use the first page of the guided notes to introduce the idea of solving money word problems involving decimals. Walk through identifying the important information in a money problem, recognizing decimal amounts as dollars and cents, and the basic operation needed to find a solution—starting with addition. Highlight the importance of lining up decimal points when adding amounts. Refer to the FAQ below for a detailed walk-through and common student questions, such as confusion about decimal placement or the difference between adding whole numbers and decimals.

Use the second page of the guided notes to deepen understanding by working through a sample problem step-by-step. Emphasize the process of reading the problem carefully, writing an equation using decimal numbers, performing the addition accurately, and interpreting the answer in the context of money. Discuss common pitfalls like forgetting the decimal or misreading the problem. The FAQ provides guidance on how to respond to students who struggle with these steps.

Use the guided notes to check for understanding with embedded quick questions and prompts. If any students show difficulty with the concepts, pull them aside for a brief reteaching session focusing on decimal place value and alignment during addition. Meanwhile, students who demonstrate proficiency can be encouraged to begin the practice exercises. Refer to the FAQ for strategies to address varying proficiency levels within the classroom.

Practice

Have students practice solving money word problems with simple decimals using the color by code and maze activities. Walk around to answer student questions.

Fast finishers can dive into the problem sets on the practice worksheet for extra practice. You can assign it as homework for the remainder of the class.

Real-Life Application

Bring the class back together, and introduce the concept of using money word problem skills to manage everyday shopping and budgeting. Explain how understanding addition and subtraction with decimals helps when calculating totals, giving change, and comparing prices. Refer to the FAQ for more ideas on how to teach it!

Extensions

Additional Self-Checking Digital Practice

If you’re looking for digital practice for money word problems with decimals, try my Pixel Art activities in Google Sheets. Every answer is automatically checked, and correct answers unlock parts of a mystery picture. It’s incredibly fun, and a powerful tool for differentiation.

Here’s 1 activity to explore:

• Money Word Problems 4th Grade Digital Pixel Art Four Operations Decimals