Predict the result
Decimal formulas connect place value, scientific notation, rounding, and summary measures.
Which is larger: zero point zero zero four, or zero point zero three?

Set up the model
Write both decimals to the same place value.
Compare digits from left to right.

Work the example
Zero point zero three is thirty thousandths.
Thirty thousandths is greater than four thousandths.

Check the result
Which is larger: one point zero two four nine, or one point zero two?
Take eight seconds to think before the answer appears.
[Eight-second silent pause to work; the answer remains hidden.]
One point zero two four nine is larger.

Interpret the result
Trailing zeros preserve a decimal value while helping compare place values.