Decimal Fraction Material

The Decimal Fraction Material is a key Montessori mathematics resource designed to help children understand the relationship between whole numbers and decimal fractions through concrete, hands-on exploration. This set includes a felt board printed with whole numbers and decimal fraction values, allowing children to clearly visualize place value positions such as tenths, hundredths, and thousandths.

Accompanying the board are two boxes of decimal fraction beads and cubes, which enable children to perform arithmetic operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division—using both whole numbers and decimal quantities. By manipulating bead values and placing them on the felt board, children experience how decimal numbers function within the base-10 system, making abstract decimal concepts intuitive and meaningful.

This material prepares children for advanced mathematical work, strengthens number sense, and supports the seamless transition from concrete manipulatives to abstract decimal notation. It is widely used in Montessori elementary classrooms for introducing and practicing decimal operations.

Key Benefits & Learning Outcomes

• Introduces decimal place value: tenths, hundredths, thousandths
• Helps children perform arithmetic operations with decimal fractions
• Strengthens understanding of the relationship between whole numbers and decimals
• Builds mathematical confidence through hands-on manipulation
• Supports progression toward abstract decimal computation

Design & Material

• Board: Felt board printed with whole numbers and decimal fraction positions
• Bead & Cube Boxes: Two boxes containing decimal beads and cubes for arithmetic operations
• Material: High-quality felt, wooden boxes, and precision-made decimal beads
• Use Case: Ideal for Montessori elementary math work and place value lessons
• Age Group: 6+ years