Decimal Bingo Games

Even though and .5 look different, they are symbols representing the same quantity size. Decimals are
fractional quantities with their denominators hidden.
A significant goal of instruction in decimal and fraction numeration should be to help students
see that both systems represent the same concepts. (VDW p. 329)
Thus, we can use fractional tenths, hundredths, and thousandths to introduce decimal quantities and their
notation because they are easily represented. After students have a strong understanding of tenths,
hundredths, and thousandths, move to other familiar fractional quantities, such as thirds, quarters, eighths,
or twelfths.
1. Develop the concept of tenths as fractional quantities. Next, develop fluency with the concept by
using the bingo boards. Using different versions of the bingo boards and the calling cards allows
for fluency to be gradually developed. We recommend the following order of events:
Fluency with fractional symbols & their illustrated quantities
1.

Provide a blank Round Model Bingo Board to each student. Have students use colored
pencils to randomly fill their boards with the fractional quantities of 1/10 through 9/10.
(Keep in mind that pieces do not have to be side-by-side!) Let them use the Fractional
Calling Cards to select which fractional quantity to color. After the boards are filled,
time to play bingo! --Use the fractional calling cards.

2.

Provide a blank Square Model Bingo Board to each student. Have students use colored
pencils to randomly fill their boards with the fractional quantities of 1/10 through 9/10.
(Keep in mind that pieces do not have to be side-by-side!) Let them use the Fractional
Calling Cards to select which fractional quantity to color. After the boards are filled,
time to play bingo! --Use the fractional calling cards.

Fluency across the models

3.

Provide students with their already colored Round Model Bingo Board. Instead of
fractional calling cards, use Square Illustrated Quantity Calling Cards. In this way,
students have to read the quantity from the card and then translate its quantity from a
square model into a round model.

4.

Now swap. Provide students with their already colored Square Model Bingo Board,
and instead of fractional calling cards, use Round Illustrated Quantity Calling Cards.
In this way, students have to read the quantity from the card and then translate its quantity
from a round model into a square model.

Now teach decimal notation (e.g., have students understand that 3/10 = 0.3).
5.

Now practice fluency in reading the decimal notation and thinking of its fractional
quantity. Provide students with either a Round Model Bingo Board or the Square
Model Bingo Board. Use the Decimal Calling Cards.