What is a Fraction
A fraction is a part of a whole.Lets a say we cut a whole apple in to 2 pieces.
We will get two halves (1/2) . Now if we cut it again, we will have 4 pieces or four quarters (1/4).
Numerator:
The number above the fraction bar is called the numerator.
Denominator:
The number below the fraction bar is called the denominator.
Example of fractions:
Compare Fractions:
Now lets compare fractions. If we want to compare fractions, we need to draw pictures.
For example, we can take 1/2 and 3/4.
Which is a bigger piece? We can see that 3/4 is bigger than 1/2. It is bigger because we have 1 more piece.
Pattern Block Fractions:
Please check these shapes below,
1 Hexagon has 2 Trapezoids or 3 rhombuses or 6 triangles.
1 Trapezoid has 1 rhombus and 1triangle or 3 triangles.
1 rhombus has 2 triangles.
Lets write these in fractions:
Types of Fractions:
There are 3 types of fractions.
- Proper Fractions
- Improper Fractions
- Mixed Fractions
When a numerator is smaller than the denominator, it is called a proper fraction.
Improper Fractions:
When numerator is bigger than the denominator, it is called an improper fraction.
Mixed Fractions:
Mixed fractions have a whole number and a fraction.
Check this video to find the fractions on the number line