Fractions are an important math concept for children to learn. Understanding fractions helps kids with skills like dividing, comparing amounts, and problem solving. Fractions can seem confusing at first, but there are lots of fun ways to teach fractions to kids.
What is a fraction?
A fraction shows part of a whole. It is made up of a numerator and a denominator separated by a fraction bar. The numerator is the top number that represents the number of parts you have. The denominator is the bottom number that represents the total number of parts.
| Numerator | Fraction bar | Denominator |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | — | 8 |
So the fraction 3/8 means you have 3 out of 8 equal parts of something. Fractions are used to represent amounts that are not whole numbers.
Types of fractions
There are a few types of fractions that kids should know:
- Proper fractions – The numerator is less than the denominator (1/4, 3/10)
- Improper fractions – The numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator (5/3, 8/4)
- Mixed numbers – A whole number and proper fraction combined (1 1/2, 2 3/4)
Equivalent fractions
Equivalent fractions represent the same amount but look different. You can create equivalent fractions by multiplying or dividing the numerator and denominator by the same number.
For example:
| 1/2 | = | 2/4 |
|---|---|---|
| Numerator x 2 | Denominator x 2 |
Being able to identify and generate equivalent fractions is an important skill.
Comparing fractions
To compare fractions, children need to understand that the larger the denominator, the smaller the pieces. Fractions with larger denominators represent smaller shares. To compare fractions with the same numerator, the fraction with the smaller denominator is greater.
For example:
| 1/2 > 1/3 |
|---|
| Thirds are smaller than halves |
When the denominators are different, it helps to find a common denominator. This makes the fractions easier to compare.
Adding and subtracting fractions
To add and subtract fractions, they must have a common denominator. You can find a common denominator by looking for the lowest number that is a multiple of both denominators.
For example:
| 1/3 + 1/4 |
| Find a common denominator = 12 |
| = 4/12 + 3/12 |
| = 7/12 |
Visual models like fraction circles or strips make adding and subtracting more concrete for kids.
Multiplying fractions
To multiply fractions, children multiply the numerators together and multiply the denominators together.
For example:
| 1/3 x 1/5 = |
| Numerators: 1 x 1 = 1 |
| Denominators: 3 x 5 = 15 |
| = 1/15 |
Models like fraction strips or grids show how the pieces get smaller when fractions are multiplied.
Dividing fractions
To divide fractions, children flip the second fraction and multiply. This is often called “keep, change, flip.”
For example:
| 1/3 ÷ 1/5 = |
| Keep 1/3, change to multiplication, flip 1/5 to 5/1 |
| = 1/3 x 5/1 |
| = 5/3 |
Models can also help kids visualize fraction division.
Real-world uses of fractions
Relating fractions to real life situations gives meaning to the concept. Everyday uses of fractions include:
- Measuring ingredients in recipes (1/2 cup of sugar)
- Telling time (1/4 hour, 1/2 hour)
- Putting events in order (Ryan finished 1/5 of the race)
- Partitioning shapes or groups (divide the pizza into 6 equal slices)
- Describing probabilities (there’s a 1/10 chance of rain today)
Fun ways to teach fractions to kids
Here are some engaging fraction activities for kids:
Fraction bars
Use rectangle paper bars and have kids color or shade in fractions. This shows parts of a whole.
Pattern blocks
Let children use pattern blocks to model fractions and equivalences. Each shape represents a different fraction.
Fraction circles
Fraction circle pieces show the relationship between halves, thirds, fourths, etc. Kids can use them to model and compare fractions.
Fraction strips
Rolled or cut paper strips allow kids to visualize length and compare, add, multiply and divide fractions.
Pizza fractions
Get play-dough or paper pizza slices and practice partitioning them into fractions.
Graphing fractions
Create a number line or bar graph to plot, compare and order fractions.
Fraction bingo
Make bingo boards with fractions. Call out clues instead of numbers to engage kids.
Fraction games
Fun card games, board games, and digital math games provide interactive fraction practice.
Conclusion
Fractions are an essential math concept for children to learn. Make teaching fractions fun and meaningful by relating them to everyday life. Use hands-on activities, visual models, and games to build fraction understanding. With time and practice, kids will gain confidence using and manipulating fractions.