Understanding Fractions: 4th Grade Basics

Vocabulary flashcards covering the basic concepts of fractions, including types, components, and operations for 4th-grade math.

Fraction

A representation of a part of a whole written with two numbers: a numerator and a denominator.

Numerator

The top number in a fraction that tells how many parts are being talked about.

Denominator

The bottom number in a fraction that tells how many equal parts the whole is divided into.

Proper fractions

Fractions where the numerator is less than the denominator, such as $\frac{3}{4}$.

Improper fractions

Fractions where the numerator is equal to or greater than the denominator, such as $\frac{5}{4}$.

Mixed numbers

A whole number combined with a fraction, such as $1 \frac{1}{4}$.

Comparing Fractions (Same Denominator)

When denominators are equal, the fraction with the bigger numerator is the larger fraction, for example $\frac{5}{8} > \frac{3}{8}$ because $5 > 3$.

Adding Fractions with Like Denominators

A three-step process: check that denominators are equal, add only the numerators together, and keep the denominator the same, such as $\frac{2}{5} + \frac{1}{5} = \frac{3}{5}$.

Visualizing Fractions

Using shapes divided into equal parts where shaded parts show the numerator.