Grade 3: Place Value

Warm up with a quick recall on the board. Build numbers with base-ten blocks or bundles of ten, then say the value of each digit ('the 3 is worth 30'). Expand numbers (300 + 40 + 2).

Place value is the idea that a digit's value depends on its position. It underpins all multi-digit arithmetic. Model the method clearly, thinking aloud:

• Use base-ten blocks to build numbers.
• Practise the value of each digit (the 7 in 472 is 70).
• Expand numbers (472 = 400 + 70 + 2).
• Compare and order numbers using place value.

Do the first few questions of the practice worksheet together, one child explaining each step. Check for understanding before releasing the class to work alone.

Students complete the worksheet independently. Hand out the three difficulty levels below so every child works at the right stretch.

Circulate and look for these, they are the usual sticking points:

• Reading digits without regard to position.
• Misplacing zeros as placeholders.
• Struggling to compare numbers of different lengths.
• Reading a digit at face value regardless of its column, and dropping the zero as a place-holder (e.g. writing 32 for 302).

Pull the class back together. Ask one child to explain place value in their own words, pose a single check question everyone answers on a mini whiteboard, and name what you will build on next lesson.

Use the independent worksheet as the evidence. A child who can complete it accurately and explain one answer has met the objective; anyone who cannot needs the easier level and a short reteach next session.