Blast Off With Fractions

What is a fraction?

A fraction is a part of an entire

object.

But first, let’s look back at

whole numbers!

How do we represent whole numbers?

• We can show this on a number line

• We can show this with a circle.

Okay, so how do I show fractions?

Let’s look at an example!

• This number line represents one fourth

• This circle also represents one fourth!

Let’s look at the parts of a fraction.

12

NUMERATOR

DENOMINATOR

The Numerator shows what part of the whole is being used

The Denominator shows how many pieces make up the whole!

Here are some more examples!

• This line represents one half or 1

2

This circle also represents 1

2

And a few more…

• This line represents 3

4

• This circle also represents 3

4

The Numerator and Denominator

The denominator has been increased to 5. As the denominator increases, the fraction

decreases in size.

Let’s try a few examples!!

• Example 1

• Example 2

• Example 3

• 6 7

• 5 9

• 4 6

The Mixed Number

The mixed number 1 1/5 has a whole number part 1 and a fraction part 1/5.

Now you know the basics!

Time to get started on converting between mixed numbers and improper fractions!