Common Fractions
Compare and order fractions with denominators up to 12
Understanding Fractions
A fraction is a part of a whole. It is written as two numbers separated by a line: the numerator (top) shows how many parts we have, and the denominator (bottom) shows how many equal parts the whole is divided into. For example, 3/4 means 3 out of 4 equal parts.
Example
Naming Fractions
A pizza cut into 4 slices — each slice is 1/4 (one quarter).
You eat 2 slices: you ate 2/4 (two quarters).
1/2 = one half
1/3 = one third
1/4 = one quarter
3/4 = three quarters
Equivalent Fractions
Fractions that look different but are the same amount are called equivalent fractions.
1/2 = 2/4 = 3/6 = 4/8
You can find equivalent fractions by multiplying or dividing both the numerator and denominator by the same number.
Example
Comparing Fractions
Which is bigger: 1/3 or 1/4?
Think: If you cut a cake into 3 pieces, each piece is bigger than if you cut it into 4 pieces.
So 1/3 > 1/4.
Rule: When the numerator is the same, the smaller denominator means a bigger fraction!
Note
Remember
Numerator = top number (how many parts we have). Denominator = bottom number (total equal parts). The bigger the denominator, the smaller each part is.
Key Vocabulary
FractionA number that shows part of a whole
NumeratorThe top number of a fraction
DenominatorThe bottom number of a fraction
EquivalentFractions that have the same value
QuarterOne of four equal parts (1/4)
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