Course

Binary Numbers and Computer Codes

A Grade 6 enrichment course that connects base-two place value, binary conversion, and the way computers encode information.

Binary Numbers and Computer Codes

Course overview

This enrichment course introduces binary numbers as a base-two place-value system. Students compare binary to decimal, convert between the two systems, and connect the math to computers and coding.

What students will learn

  • Explain why binary uses only zero and one.
  • Compare base-ten and base-two place values.
  • Convert simple decimal numbers into binary.
  • Read binary numbers back into decimal form.
  • Connect binary patterns to coding and computer science.

Lessons

Parent guide

Use place-value charts and powers of two. The goal is not to memorize long strings of digits, but to understand how each binary place contributes to the total.

Completion

A student finishes this course when they can explain base-two place value, convert small numbers between decimal and binary, and describe why binary matters in computing.