Fraction Basics
Understanding and simplifying fractions
Start with the basics and progress through 3 lessons. Each lesson builds on the previous one.
0 of 3 lessons done
Test Your Knowledge
10 questions, new mix each time (from 51)
In This Topic (3 lessons)
What Are Fractions
Learn what fractions are and how they represent parts of a whole.
Equivalent Fractions
Learn how different fractions can represent the same amount and how to find equivalent fractions.
Simplifying Fractions
Learn how to reduce fractions to their simplest form by finding common factors.
Fractions represent parts of a whole and are fundamental to mathematics. They appear everywhere: in cooking recipes, music timing, sports statistics, and countless other situations. Understanding fractions deeply prepares you for decimals, percentages, ratios, and algebra.
In this topic, you will learn what fractions mean and how to visualize them using area models and number lines. You will understand numerators and denominators, identify equivalent fractions, and simplify to lowest terms. Comparing and ordering fractions builds number sense that transfers to all areas of math.
Our lessons use visual models and real-world contexts to make fractions intuitive. You will see fractions as both parts of a whole and as division, developing flexible thinking that is essential for fraction operations and beyond.
What You'll Learn
- Understand fractions as parts of a whole
- Identify numerator and denominator
- Represent fractions on number lines and area models
- Find equivalent fractions by multiplying or dividing
- Simplify fractions to lowest terms
- Compare and order fractions with different denominators
- Convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the numerator and denominator mean?
The denominator (bottom) tells how many equal parts the whole is divided into. The numerator (top) tells how many of those parts you have. In 3/4, the whole is cut into 4 parts, and you have 3 of them.
Why are equivalent fractions equal?
Equivalent fractions represent the same amount, just with different-sized pieces. 1/2 and 2/4 and 3/6 all mean exactly half. Multiplying numerator and denominator by the same number does not change the value.
What is the difference between proper and improper fractions?
In a proper fraction, the numerator is smaller than the denominator (less than 1 whole). In an improper fraction, the numerator is equal to or larger than the denominator (1 or more wholes). 5/3 is improper and equals 1⅔.