Fractions

What is a Fraction?

• A fraction is a way to describe parts of a whole.
• Imagine you have a whole pizza. If you cut it into pieces, each piece is a fraction of that pizza.
• The most important rule for fractions is that the pieces must be equal (the same size).

Equal Parts vs. Unequal Parts Before we name fractions, we have to make sure the parts are fair!

• Equal Parts: All pieces are the exact same size. This is a fraction.
• Unequal Parts: Some pieces are bigger than others. This is not a fraction.

Names of Fractions In Grade 1, we focus on three main ways to name parts of a whole:

1. Halves (1/2)

• When you split one whole thing into 2 equal parts.
• Each part is called one-half.
• It takes two halves to make one whole.

2. Thirds (1/3)

• When you split one whole thing into 3 equal parts.
• Each part is called one-third.

3. Quarters or Fourths (1/4)

• When you split one whole thing into 4 equal parts.
• Each part is called one-fourth or a quarter.

The Fraction "Number" A fraction looks like two numbers with a line in the middle: 1/2

• Top Number (Numerator): Tells you how many parts you are talking about (e.g., how many slices you get to eat).
• Bottom Number (Denominator): Tells you how many parts the whole was cut into altogether.

Fractions in the Real World

• Sharing: If you share an apple with a friend, you cut it into halves.
• Time: When someone says "half past four," they mean the clock hand has moved halfway around the circle.
• Money: Four quarters make one whole dollar.

Lesson Summary

• Fractions are parts of a whole.
• Parts must be equal.
• 2 parts = Halves, 3 parts = Thirds, 4 parts = Fourths.