We do not use the word and when writing whole numbers.
In Grade 4 math, whole numbers are written in words without using the word 'and.' For example, 313 is 'three hundred thirteen,' not 'three hundred and thirteen.' The word 'and' is reserved specifically for separating the whole number part from the decimal or fractional part of a number. Taught in Chapter 1 of Saxon Math Intermediate 4, this convention prevents confusion when reading mixed numbers and prepares students to write decimal amounts like 'five and three-tenths' correctly.
Key Concepts
Property To write three digit numbers, we first write the number of hundreds and then we write the rest of the number. We do not use the word and when writing whole numbers.
Example The number 313 is written as 'three hundred thirteen'. The number 705 is written as 'seven hundred five'. The number 444 is written as 'four hundred forty four'.
Explanation When writing a number like 525, you should state it as 'five hundred twenty five.' You must avoid sneaking the word 'and' in there, as in 'five hundred and twenty five.' In the math world, the word 'and' is a secret password reserved for separating whole numbers from their decimal or fractional parts, so we save it for later use.
Common Questions
How do you write a whole number in words?
Write the hundreds, then the remaining two-digit number—no word 'and.' For example, 507 is 'five hundred seven,' not 'five hundred and seven.'
When is the word 'and' used in number names?
The word 'and' is used only to indicate a decimal point. '5 and 3 tenths' = 5.3. For whole numbers, 'and' is always omitted.
How do you write 444 in words?
Four hundred forty-four. There are no 'ands' because 444 is a whole number with no fractional part.
When do Grade 4 students learn this number-writing rule?
This rule is introduced in Chapter 1 of Saxon Math Intermediate 4 as students build precise mathematical vocabulary for reading and writing numbers.
What happens if you say 'and' in a whole number on a check?
On legal documents like checks, writing 'and' implies a decimal amount (cents). Writing 'three hundred and fifty' could be misread as $300.50 rather than $350.00.
How does avoiding 'and' in whole numbers help with decimals?
Reserving 'and' for the decimal point makes number reading unambiguous. When you hear 'twenty-three and four tenths,' you know immediately it means 23.4.