Understanding the principles of base ten is essential to understanding numbers and operations. Students will become familiar with the concept of place value through engaging narratives and real-life situations. Students will then be challenged to use place value in the context of algebraic operations, demonstrating the knowledge they've gained from reading. Eye-catching visuals help walk readers through the math problems, while age-appropriate language encourages learning. Readers practice mental addition skills as they learn about high-speed trains from around the world, including countries as unique as China, Germany, and Italy. This volume meets CCSS Math Standard 2.NBT.B.8.