What Are Unit Fractions?
Unit fractions are special fractions where the numerator is always 1!
They look like this: \(\frac{1}{2}\), \(\frac{1}{3}\), \(\frac{1}{4}\), and so on. The denominator tells us how many equal parts the whole is divided into.
How to Compare Differences
1️⃣ Find the difference between two unit fractions by subtracting them
2️⃣ Compare denominators - bigger denominators mean smaller fractions!
3️⃣ Visualize with shapes to see which difference is larger
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Pizza Fractions
Which difference is larger: \(\frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{4}\) or \(\frac{1}{3} - \frac{1}{6}\)?
\(\frac{1}{2}\) - \(\frac{1}{4}\)
\(\frac{1}{3}\) - \(\frac{1}{6}\)
\(\frac{1}{2} - \frac{1}{4} = \frac{1}{4}\) is larger than \(\frac{1}{3} - \frac{1}{6} = \frac{1}{6}\)!
You can see that the orange slice (difference) is bigger in the first pizza.
Example 2: Chocolate Bar Fractions
Which difference is smaller: \(\frac{1}{5} - \frac{1}{10}\) or \(\frac{1}{8} - \frac{1}{16}\)?
\(\frac{1}{8} - \frac{1}{16} = \frac{1}{16}\) is smaller than \(\frac{1}{5} - \frac{1}{10} = \frac{1}{10}\)!
The smaller pieces show us that \(\frac{1}{16}\) is tinier than \(\frac{1}{10}\).
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use food fractions: Cut pizzas, pies, or chocolate bars to visually demonstrate unit fraction differences.
- Play fraction war: Make cards with unit fractions and have your child subtract and compare them.
- Relate to measuring cups: Show how \(\frac{1}{2}\) cup minus \(\frac{1}{4}\) cup leaves \(\frac{1}{4}\) cup.