Understanding Fractions and Decimals
Did you know fractions and decimals are just different ways to show the same thing?
Number lines help us see exactly where fractions and decimals belong. Today we'll learn to compare them by placing them on number lines!
How to Compare Fractions and Decimals
1️⃣ Find equivalent decimals for fractions (like 1/2 = 0.5)
2️⃣ Draw a number line from 0 to 1 with equal spaces
3️⃣ Place both numbers on the line to see which is bigger
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Compare 0.4 and 3/5
Which is larger: 0.4 or 3/5? Let's find out!
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1
0.4
3/5
3/5 is equal to 0.6. On the number line, 0.6 is to the right of 0.4, so 3/5 is larger than 0.4!
This circle shows 3/5 shaded!Example 2: Find where 0.75 and 2/3 belong
Drag the points to the correct positions on the number line:
0
0.25
0.5
0.75
1
0.75
2/3
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen math: Use measuring cups to show how fractions (1/4 cup) relate to decimals (0.25 cups).
- Number line race: Create a giant number line on the floor with tape and have kids jump to different fractions/decimals.
- Real-world connections: Point out decimals in prices ($0.75) and relate them to fractions (3/4 of a dollar).