Understanding Decimal to Fraction Conversion
Decimals and fractions are just different ways to show the same value!
A decimal like 0.5 means "5 tenths," which is the same as the fraction \(\frac{5}{10}\). We can simplify this to \(\frac{1}{2}\). Let's learn how to make these conversions fun and easy!
Conversion Steps
1️⃣ Identify the place value of the last digit in the decimal
2️⃣ Write as a fraction with the decimal number as numerator and the place value as denominator
3️⃣ Simplify the fraction by dividing numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Convert 0.75 to a fraction
1. The last digit (5) is in the hundredths place → denominator = 100
2. Write as fraction: \(\frac{75}{100}\)
3. Simplify: Both 75 and 100 can be divided by 25 → \(\frac{3}{4}\)
Visual: 0.75 = \(\frac{3}{4}\) of the square is blue
Example 2: Convert 2.6 to a mixed number
1. The whole number part is 2
2. The decimal 0.6 has the 6 in tenths place → \(\frac{6}{10}\)
3. Simplify \(\frac{6}{10}\) to \(\frac{3}{5}\)
4. Combine: \(2\frac{3}{5}\)
Visual: 2.6 = 2 whole circles + \(\frac{3}{5}\) of another
Interactive Practice
Convert 0.4 to a fraction:
/Challenge Question
Convert 3.25 to a mixed number:
/Parent Tips 🌟
- Use money as an example: $0.25 is a quarter, which equals \(\frac{1}{4}\) of a dollar. This makes decimals and fractions more relatable.
- Practice with measuring cups: Cooking together provides great opportunities to see decimals (0.5 cups) and fractions (\(\frac{1}{2}\) cup) in action.
- Play decimal-fraction matching games: Create cards with equivalent decimals and fractions to match, making learning feel like play.