Another way to represent the numbers in between whole numbers is by using fractions. All rational numbers can be written as a fraction with one integer—called the numerator—on the top and another integer—called the denominator—on the bottom. These fractions represent parts of a whole number. In the following applet, you can make a visual image of these fractions by shading in part of a square.
Click on the image below to access the activity. You will divide the square into equal-sized pieces and then click to shade the part of the square that is the same as the fraction shown.
On a piece of paper, fill in the following chart:
Fraction 1 | picture | Fraction 2 | picture | Which was greater? |
In your notes, list two things that you noticed about what makes one fraction have a greater value than another fraction.
Interactive popup. Assistance may be required.
Possible answers could include: