A fraction describes how many parts of an object there are. You can use fractions to split a whole number into parts, such as halves or quarters.
Fractions can be written in words or as a figure. In maths sums, they are normally written as figures. For example, 'three-quarters' is represented as 3/4.
Numerators and denominators
Fractions are made up of two parts, the numerator and the denominator.
The numerator is the number above the line in a fraction and shows how many parts we have out of the whole. For example, in the fraction 1/4, the numerator is 1.
The denominator below the line shows how many equal parts there are in total and so what to divide the whole into.
For example, in the fraction ½, the denominator is 2.
Can CAL afford it?
In this clip CAL wants to buy a new hat, but the cost of the hats are reduced by fraction amounts. He wants to know if he has enough money to buy the hats.
Amelia explains how to find the amount of money off the hats, by using fractions.
How many slices are left?
Have a go and see if you can divide this tasty apple pie into two, four, six and eight equal parts.
Image caption, 1/2 (one half)
One out of two slices is ready to be served.
1 of 4
Have a go at the quiz to practise your fraction skills.
More on Number
Find out more by working through a topic
- count3 of 25
- count4 of 25
- count5 of 25
- count6 of 25
