Fractions - Grade 3
These lessons will help you develop an understanding of division by:
- explaining that a fraction represents a part of a whole,
- comparing fractions of the same whole that have like denominators.
See also:
Comparing Fractions
Lesson Plans and Worksheets for Grade 3
Common Core For Grade 3
Lessons for Grade 3
Fraction Worksheets
Examples, solutions, videos, worksheets, songs, games, and activities to help Grade 3 students understand fractions.
A fraction is a number that describes a relationship between a part (represented by the numerator) and a whole (represented by the denominator). Although you see two numbers, you have to think of one idea, the relationship.
Fractions as Part of a Whole
A fraction can be used to name a part of a whole.
For example, the following circle is divided into four equal parts: blue, green, yellow and red. Each part, or color, of the circle represents 1/4 (one-fourth) of the whole circle. 4/4 or 1 represents the whole circle.
You use numerators and denominators to name fractions. The numerator (top number) of the fraction tells the number of parts being considered. The denominator (bottom number) of the fraction tells the number of parts in a whole.
The following diagram shows an example of a fraction indicating the numerator, denominator, and fraction bar. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions of fractions.
Fractions: Parts of a Whole
Fractions are equal size parts of a whole.
Learn how to represent fractions in different ways by dividing the same whole into equal parts.
Learn how to write and name a fraction by using numbers called the numerator or top number and
denominator or bottom number.
Learn that the larger the denominator, the smaller the fractional parts by using models and
looking at real world examples.
Fractions-fractions song
Fractions - they’re parts of a whole.
Sing about halves, thirds, quarters, numerators and denominators.
Lyrics:
Fractions, fractions,
They’re parts of a whole,
Fractions, fractions,
They’re what I know…
They’re equal pieces,
They’re parts of a pie,
Fractions, fractions,
They’re alright!
Compare Fractions with Like Denominators
If two fractions have the same denominator, the fraction with the greater numerator represents the larger piece of the whole. If the denominators of two fractions from the same whole are the same, then the parts are the same.
We can use the symbols for greater than and less than (< and >) when comparing fractions with the same denominator.
If John ate 2/6 of the pizza and Gina ate 3/6 of the pizza, who ate the most pizza?
How to compare fractions with like denominators?
Try the free Mathway calculator and
problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own
problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
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