What this worksheet helps children practise
Ask what a digit represents as well as what it is called. In 3.1, the 1 represents one tenth. If 0.7 is confused with 7, return to the one-meter strip and show that seven sections are still shorter than the whole strip.
The aim is to add ones to ones and tenths to tenths. A whole strip represents one meter, and each of its ten equal parts represents one tenth of a meter. A length of 0.4 m therefore means four tenths of a meter, not four meters. The decimal point separates ones from tenths. This guided extension for learners studying tenths assumes they already understand a whole divided into ten equal parts. It does not include hundredths or regrouping. For a related skill, use Tenths models: fractions and decimals: Read the models, complete the numbers, then shade the grids.
Preparing a short session
Print at actual size and put the answer key aside. Provide a pencil and, if helpful, a paper strip divided into ten equal sections. Identify the O and t columns together. Read a length before adding, then point to its decimal point. There is no cutting task and no need for real ribbon. Every length is measured in meters, so both numbers in a calculation use the same unit. Introduce only two orders if a full page feels too demanding.
A concrete example to get started
The model combines 0.2 m and 0.3 m. Two dotted sections followed by three hatched sections on the one-meter strip represent five tenths. In the vertical addition, 2 + 3 = 5 in the tenths column and 0 + 0 = 0 in the ones column. The answer is 0.5 m. The five remaining sections are outside the calculated length; the complete strip is shown to establish the one-meter reference.
Supporting the activity
Add the tenths first and then the ones. Write one digit in each box; the decimal point and m symbol are already printed. The six orders include lengths below one meter and lengths with whole-number parts. The notation 2.0 m means exactly two meters, with no extra tenth. Every column total stays below ten, so there is no regrouping. Encourage children to name each place value while they calculate rather than treating the digits as whole numbers. To vary the practice, try Adding fractions with like denominators: Mark both groups of parts, then complete the total fraction.
What to notice and how to check
The answers in order are 0.7 m, 3.7 m, 5.5 m, 5.8 m, 3.8 m and 7.7 m. For 1.3 + 2.4, ask for three tenths plus four tenths, then one whole plus two wholes. The answer is 3.7, not 37. Check that the first answer includes its leading zero. Use the answer key to discuss each column, and ask the child to read the complete length before correcting an error.
Making the task easier
Use only the worked example and the first order. Children can count strip sections and dictate an answer for an adult to write. Cover the remaining labels, then introduce a length with a whole-number part once the meaning of a tenth is secure.
Keep the learning aim, but reduce how much the child has to handle at once. Cover part of the page with another sheet and reveal one task at a time. Demonstrate a separate example, then leave a real opportunity to work something out. An answer reached with support is still a useful attempt; it does not yet show that the same task can be completed independently.
Taking the idea beyond the worksheet
Compare 1.3 + 2.4 with 2.4 + 1.3: reversing the lengths does not change the total. Invent two more lengths whose tenths add to less than ten. Also check that 2.0 m and 2 m describe the same length.
Use the follow-up to meet the same idea in a different setting. Offer it once the first task makes sense, without insisting that the whole page must be perfect. The child might explain a strategy, make an example or set a challenge for an adult. Return to the worksheet only when it helps connect the two situations. A short conversation or a practical activity can be enough to finish the session. To continue exploring, use Three-digit addition without regrouping: Add each pair. Write one digit in each answer box.
Downloading and printing the PDF
This free PDF contains one worksheet designed for A4 paper. Download the file using the button on this page and open it in your PDF reader. Choose actual size or a 100% scale, check the orientation in the print preview and turn off any browser headers or footers. The illustrations use vector lines, so their outlines stay sharp when printed. Check the margins on one copy before preparing several sheets for a group. The level shown on the page is a guide, rather than a requirement to complete the activity at a particular age.