Grade 4 · Unit 2: Fractions and decimals

Mixed numbers and improper fractions

More than one whole.

Rotis for a family

Each roti is cut into quarters. A family eats 7 quarters. That is more than one whole roti!

7 quarters

7/4 is an improper fraction. 4 quarters make 1 whole, and 3 quarters are left. So 7/4 = 1¾, a mixed number.

On a number line

Count in quarters: ¼, 2/4, 3/4, 1, 1¼ … 7/4 is at 1¾. 10/4 is at 2½.

Converting

Improper to mixed: divide numerator by denominator. Mixed to improper: multiply the whole by the denominator, add the numerator. Check with a drawing.

What I learnt

• I can convert between mixed numbers and improper fractions.
• I can place them on a number line.