Understanding Fractions

What is a fraction?

A fraction tells us how many equal parts we have. The top number is the numerator. The bottom number is the denominator.

Comic Callout: If the denominator is 4, the whole is split into 4 equal pieces!

Quick diagram

1/2 means one of two equal parts.
1/4 means one of four equal parts.

Learning summary

• Fractions must use equal parts.
• The denominator counts total equal parts.
• The numerator counts selected parts.