Understanding Decimals and Fractions
Did you know decimals and fractions are just different ways to show parts of a whole?
Fractions like \(\frac{1}{2}\) and decimals like 0.5 can represent the same amount! Today we'll learn how to compare them.
How to Compare Them
1️⃣ Convert fractions to decimals (divide numerator by denominator)
2️⃣ Line up the decimal points to compare place values
3️⃣ Compare from left to right just like whole numbers
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Which is greater?
Let's convert \(\frac{3}{4}\) to a decimal: 3 ÷ 4 = 0.75
Now compare 0.75 and 0.70
0.75 > 0.70 because 7 tenths is equal, but 5 hundredths is more than 0 hundredths!
\(\frac{3}{4}\) > 0.7 ✅
Example 2: Put these in order from least to greatest
Convert all to decimals:
\(\frac{2}{5}\) = 0.4, 0.45 stays the same, \(\frac{1}{2}\) = 0.5
Now order them: 0.4, 0.45, 0.5
So the correct order is: \(\frac{2}{5}\), 0.45, \(\frac{1}{2}\) ✅
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen Math: When cooking, ask your child to compare measurements like "Is 0.3 cups more or less than \(\frac{1}{3}\) cup?"
- Money Practice: Use coins to show decimal equivalents (quarters = 0.25 = \(\frac{1}{4}\) dollar).
- Number Line: Draw a number line from 0 to 1 and plot both fractions and decimals to visualize comparisons.