Roman Numerals and Place Value

Roman Numerals and Place Value

What students learn

Students learn that Roman numerals work differently from the base-ten system they use every day. Watch Roman Numerals: Notice the Missing Zero to see how the older system compares with place value.

Why it matters

This comparison helps students understand why base-ten with zero is efficient for large numbers. Place Value Song: Find the Base-Ten Places gives a quick review of ones, tens, hundreds, and beyond.

Learn the idea

In a place-value number, the value of each digit depends on where it sits. Place Value Song: Read Digits from Left to Right helps students notice that the leftmost digits carry the largest value.

Try it

Ask the student to compare 48, 480, and XLVIII. Which one is easiest to read? Which one is easiest to add or subtract? Why?

Parent guide

Point out that Roman numerals are additive and subtractive symbols, while base-ten numbers use place value and zero. The goal here is comparison, not just conversion.