Fractions
⭐ MasteredA fraction shows parts of a whole. In 3/4, the 3 is the numerator (parts we have) and the 4 is the denominator (total equal parts).
Musicians use fractions too: a half note lasts twice as long as a quarter note.
All about Fractions
A fraction describes part of a whole that has been split into equal pieces. The bottom number, the denominator, tells you how many equal parts the whole has.
Fractions with the same denominator are easy to compare. Equivalent fractions, like 1/2 and 2/4, look different but are the same amount. You can find one by multiplying the top and bottom by the same number.
If there are 8 sweets and you eat 2, you have eaten 2/8 of the sweets, which is the same as one quarter.
🎮 Try it yourself!
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👀 What the animation shows
This animation shows a whole split into equal parts. Watch how the number of parts on the bottom stays the same while the shaded parts on the top change as you pick more or fewer slices.
Real-life uses of Fractions
- Sharing a pizza or chocolate bar fairly
- Reading recipes that ask for half a cup or three-quarters of a teaspoon
- Measuring lengths on a ruler, such as 3/4 of an inch
Frequently asked questions about Fractions
What is the numerator and denominator?
The numerator is the top number and counts the parts you have. The denominator is the bottom number and counts the equal parts in the whole.
How do you add fractions with the same denominator?
Add the numerators and keep the denominator the same. For example, 1/4 + 2/4 = 3/4.
What is an improper fraction?
A fraction where the numerator is bigger than or equal to the denominator, such as 5/4, which equals one whole and one quarter.