Learn Fractions

Basic recognition: halves and quarters only

A fraction is equal parts of a whole. The bottom number says how many parts the whole was cut into.

Recognition & naming: halves, thirds, quarters, fifths (“a quarter” = 1/4)

1/4 and "a quarter" are two names for the same thing — one written, one spoken.

Recognition with sixths and eighths

Comparing fractions (same denominator): which is larger?

When the bottom numbers match, the one with more parts shaded is bigger. Only the top number is doing any work.

Equivalent fractions: doubling (1/2 = ?/4, with pictures)

Two different fractions can be the same amount. Splitting every part in two doubles both numbers and changes nothing.

Equivalent fractions: bigger jumps (×3, ×4)

Simplifying fractions: reduce to simplest form

Simplifying writes the same amount with smaller numbers — the shaded area never moves.

Adding & subtracting fractions (same denominator)

Same bottom number: add the tops and leave the bottom alone. The parts did not change size, so the name for them does not either.

Fraction of a number: what is 1/4 of 12?

1/4 of 12 means sharing 12 into 4 equal groups and taking one. This is where fractions meet division.