Math Lesson Notes
Date: January 27, 2025
Topic: Fractions and Decimals
Key Concepts:
1. Fractions:
o A fraction represents a part of a whole.
o Example: ½ (one-half), ⅓ (one-third).
o Numerator: The top number (represents parts taken).
o Denominator: The bottom number (represents total parts).
2. Types of Fractions:
o Proper Fraction: Numerator < Denominator (e.g., 3/4).
o Improper Fraction: Numerator > Denominator (e.g., 5/3).
o Mixed Number: Whole number + proper fraction (e.g., 2½).
3. Converting Improper Fractions to Mixed Numbers:
o Divide the numerator by the denominator.
o The quotient is the whole number.
o The remainder becomes the new numerator.
4. Decimals:
o A decimal is another way to represent a fraction.
o Example: 0.5 = ½, 0.25 = ¼.
5. Converting Fractions to Decimals:
o Divide the numerator by the denominator.
o Example: 3/4 = 3 ÷ 4 = 0.75.
6. Converting Decimals to Fractions:
o Write the decimal as a fraction (0.75 = 75/100).
o Simplify the fraction (75/100 = 3/4).
Practice Problems:
1. Convert the improper fraction 9/4 to a mixed number.
o 9 ÷ 4 = 2 R1, so 9/4 = 2¼.
2. Write 0.6 as a fraction and simplify.
o 0.6 = 6/10 = 3/5.
3. Convert 7/8 to a decimal.
o 7 ÷ 8 = 0.875.
Key Formulas:
Fraction to Decimal: Divide numerator by denominator.
Decimal to Fraction: Place decimal over its place value (0.5 = 5/10), then simplify.
Reminders:
Always simplify fractions to their lowest terms.
Check your work to avoid calculation errors.
Questions I Had:
1. How do you know when a fraction is already in its simplest form?
2. Is there a shortcut for converting repeating decimals to fractions?
Additional Notes:
A fraction bar (/) is also considered a division symbol.
Practice helps with getting faster at conversions!