Lesson Plan
More Than Whole: Decimals & Fractions
Students will be able to represent and convert decimals greater than one to mixed numbers and improper fractions, and vice-versa, understanding their equivalent values.
Understanding decimals and fractions greater than one extends students' number sense and is essential for real-world applications like measurement, finance, and advanced mathematical operations. It helps them see that numbers can exist beyond a single whole unit.
Audience
4th Grade
Time
60 minutes
Approach
Through visual models, direct instruction, guided practice, and independent application.
Prep
Teacher Preparation
15 minutes
- Review the Slide Deck: More Than Whole to familiarize yourself with the content and pacing.
* Print copies of the Worksheet: Beyond the Whole for each student.
* Prepare the Answer Key: Beyond the Whole for grading.
* Read through the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One to internalize key phrases and discussion points.
* Ensure projector and computer are working properly for the slide presentation.
Step 1
Warm-Up: What's Bigger?
5 minutes
Begin the lesson with the Warm Up: What's Bigger? activity. Display the warm-up questions and ask students to consider quantities larger than one. Briefly discuss their responses to activate prior knowledge.
Step 2
Introduction to Numbers Greater Than One
10 minutes
Use the first few slides of the Slide Deck: More Than Whole to introduce the concept of numbers greater than one in both decimal and fractional forms. Use visual examples like multiple wholes or number lines.
Step 3
Connecting Decimals Greater Than One to Mixed Numbers
15 minutes
Transition to showing the relationship between decimals greater than one (e.g., 1.3, 2.75) and mixed numbers using the Slide Deck: More Than Whole. Model how to write 1.3 as 1 and 3/10, and vice-versa. Engage students with questions from the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One.
Step 4
Connecting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
15 minutes
Extend the concept to converting mixed numbers to improper fractions and vice-versa. Use the Slide Deck: More Than Whole to demonstrate the process. Provide various examples and guided practice, referring to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for prompts and explanations. Address common misconceptions.
Step 5
Independent Practice: Beyond the Whole Worksheet
10 minutes
Distribute the Worksheet: Beyond the Whole. Students will work independently to convert between decimals greater than one, mixed numbers, and improper fractions. Circulate to provide support and answer questions.
Step 6
Cool-Down: Greater Than One Check
5 minutes
Conclude the lesson with the Cool Down: Greater Than One Check activity. This will serve as a quick assessment of their understanding. Collect the cool-down responses and the worksheets.
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Slide Deck
More Than Whole: Decimals & Fractions!
Today, we'll learn about numbers that are bigger than just one whole!
Welcome students to this new topic! Engage them with the title and ask what they think 'more than whole' means in math. This lesson will explore numbers that represent more than one complete unit. Refer to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for opening remarks.
What Do 'More Than Whole' Decimals Look Like?
• Decimals can show more than one whole unit.
• The digits to the left of the decimal point are our whole numbers.
• The digits to the right of the decimal point are the parts of the next whole.
Examples: 1.3 (one and three tenths), 2.50 (two and fifty hundredths).
Ask students what they recall about decimals. Explain that just like we can have parts of a whole, we can also have whole numbers AND parts. Give examples like 1.5 cookies or 2.75 miles. Refer to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for guiding questions.
What Do 'More Than Whole' Fractions Look Like?
• Fractions can also show more than one whole.
• A mixed number combines a whole number and a fraction (e.g., 1 1/2).
• An improper fraction has a numerator that is equal to or larger than its denominator (e.g., 3/2).
Examples: 1 1/2 (one and one half), 7/4 (seven fourths).
Review fractions that are greater than one, introducing mixed numbers. Ask them how they might represent 1 and 1/2 cookies. Explain that a mixed number has a whole number and a fraction. Refer to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for explanations and examples.
Decimals to Mixed Numbers: Connecting the Wholes and Parts!
One and Three Tenths
• Decimal: 1.3
• Mixed Number: 1 3/10
They both mean one whole and three parts out of ten!
Let's try some:
• 2.5 = ? ?/10
• 3 1/10 = ?.??
This is where we explicitly link decimals greater than one to mixed numbers. Use visual aids like multiple 10-frames or number lines to show 1.3 and 1 3/10. Emphasize how the whole number part of the decimal matches the whole number in the mixed number, and the decimal part becomes the fraction. Go through several examples like 2.7 and 2 7/10. Refer to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for clear instructions and prompts.
Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions: All the Pieces!
One and Three Tenths (as an improper fraction)
• Mixed Number: 1 3/10
• Improper Fraction: 13/10
They both mean the same amount!
Let's try some:
• 2 1/4 = ?/?
• 7/2 = ? ?/?
Now, introduce improper fractions as another way to represent numbers greater than one. Show how a mixed number (1 3/10) can be converted to an improper fraction (13/10) and vice-versa. Use visuals (like pizzas cut into slices) to explain that all the parts are counted together. Provide several examples. Address common errors in converting. Refer to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for detailed explanations and common misconceptions.
Practice Time: Beyond the Whole!
Convert each number to the requested form:
- 1.6 (to mixed number)
- 2 3/10 (to decimal)
- 5/4 (to mixed number)
- 1 1/2 (to improper fraction)
Guide students through these practice problems. Encourage them to explain their reasoning. Use whiteboards or verbal responses. This is a good opportunity for formative assessment before the independent worksheet. Refer to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for additional guiding questions.
Your Turn! Independent Practice
Now it's time to show what you know!
Complete the Worksheet: Beyond the Whole on your own.
Explain that students will now work on their Worksheet: Beyond the Whole independently. Remind them to take their time and use what they've learned to convert between the different forms. Circulate and assist as needed. Refer to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for instructions on the worksheet.
Wrap-Up: What Did We Learn?
• Decimals, mixed numbers, and improper fractions can all represent quantities greater than one.
• We can convert between these forms (e.g., 1.5, 1 1/2, 3/2).
• This helps us understand numbers better!
Ask students to reflect on what they learned. Emphasize the main takeaway: decimals, mixed numbers, and improper fractions are all ways to express quantities greater than one. Preview that this skill is important for future math. Refer to the Script: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One for closing remarks and to introduce the Cool Down: Greater Than One Check.
Script
Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One: Teacher Script
Warm-Up: What's Bigger? (5 minutes)
(Display Warm Up: What's Bigger? on the screen)
"Good morning/afternoon everyone! Let's kick off our lesson with a warm-up. Take a look at the prompts on the screen. Think about situations where you might encounter numbers or amounts that are 'more than one whole.' What comes to mind?"
(Allow 1-2 minutes for students to observe and think. Call on a few students to share their initial thoughts. Guide them towards concepts like 'more than a whole pizza,' 'more than one dollar,' or distances.)
"Excellent ideas! It sounds like you've already started thinking about numbers that go beyond just one whole thing. Today, we're going to explore how we can represent these 'more than whole' amounts using both decimals and fractions."
Introduction to Numbers Greater Than One (10 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 2: "What Do 'More Than Whole' Decimals Look Like?")
"Alright, let's start by thinking about decimals again. Last time, we talked about decimals showing parts of a whole. But can decimals also show numbers larger than a whole? Where have you seen that?"
(Listen for answers like 'money' ($1.50), 'measurements' (1.7 meters). Affirm correct ideas and clarify as needed.)
"You're absolutely right! Decimals aren't just for parts. The digits to the left of the decimal point tell us how many whole units we have. The decimal point then separates those whole units from the parts of the next whole. So, 1.3 means we have one whole unit and three tenths of another unit. And 2.50 means two whole units and fifty hundredths of another unit. Think about money: $1.25 is one whole dollar and 25 cents, which is 25 hundredths of a dollar."
(Advance to Slide 3: "What Do 'More Than Whole' Fractions Look Like?")
"Now, how about fractions? Can fractions show amounts larger than one whole? What kind of fractions have we seen that are bigger than one?"
(Encourage students to recall 'mixed numbers' and potentially 'improper fractions'. Remind them of what each part represents.)
"Precisely! Fractions can definitely show more than one whole. We have mixed numbers, which are like a combo deal: a whole number and a fraction together, like 1 1/2. That means one whole and one half of another. And then we have improper fractions, where the top number, the numerator, is bigger than or equal to the bottom number, the denominator. For example, 7/4 means you have seven pieces, and it takes four pieces to make a whole. So you have more than one whole.
"Just like last time, we're going to see how these different ways of writing numbers – decimals, mixed numbers, and improper fractions – are all connected when we're talking about amounts greater than one!"
Connecting Decimals Greater Than One to Mixed Numbers (15 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 4: "Decimals to Mixed Numbers: Connecting the Wholes and Parts!")
"Let's connect decimals to mixed numbers first. If I have a decimal like 1.3, how would I say that number?"
(Wait for 'one and three tenths'.)
"Perfect! 'One and three tenths'. Now, how would we write that as a mixed number? Remember, a mixed number has a whole number and a fraction part."
(Guide them to 1 3/10. Use a visual if helpful, like drawing a whole and then three tenths of another.)
"Yes! 1 3/10. The whole number part of the decimal, which is 1, becomes the whole number in our mixed number. And the decimal part, .3 (three tenths), becomes our fraction 3/10. It's like we're just writing what we say!
"Let's try some together. If I have 2.5, how would I write that as a mixed number? Think: 'two and five tenths'."
(Write 2 5/10 on the board. Then, point to the next example.)
"And if I have the mixed number 3 1/10, how would I write that as a decimal? How do we say 3 1/10?"
(Write 3.1 on the board. Continue with a few more examples, like 4.8 and 4 8/10, or 5 2/10 and 5.2, until students are comfortable.)
"Any questions about connecting decimals greater than one to mixed numbers?"
Connecting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions (15 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 5: "Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions: All the Pieces!")
"Now, let's take those mixed numbers and turn them into something called an improper fraction. Remember, an improper fraction is when the numerator is bigger than or equal to the denominator, meaning we've counted all the pieces, including those that make up the whole.
"Let's use our example, 1 3/10. How many tenths are in one whole?"
(Wait for '10 tenths' or '10/10'.)
"Exactly! So, in 1 3/10, we have 10 tenths from the whole part, plus the 3 tenths from the fraction part. If we add those together, 10 + 3 gives us... ?"
(Wait for '13'.)
"Right! So 1 3/10 as an improper fraction is 13/10. We just count all the tenths together. The denominator stays the same because the size of the pieces hasn't changed.
"Let's try: If I have the mixed number 2 1/4, how many fourths are in two wholes? (Each whole has 4/4, so 2 wholes is 4 + 4 = 8 fourths.) Plus the 1 fourth from the fraction part. How many fourths in total?"
(Write 9/4. Emphasize the multiplication of whole number by denominator plus the numerator.)
"What about going the other way? If I have an improper fraction like 7/2, how would I turn that into a mixed number? How many groups of 2 go into 7?"
(Guide them to '3 with a remainder of 1'. So, 3 wholes and 1/2 remaining. Write 3 1/2. Carefully explain division and remainder.)
(Continue with examples like 1 3/4 and 7/4, 9/2 and 4 1/2, until students are comfortable.)
"Any questions about improper fractions and mixed numbers? This can feel like a puzzle, but with practice, you'll become master puzzle solvers!"
Practice Time: Beyond the Whole! (Slide 6, 5 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 6: "Practice Time: Beyond the Whole!")
"Okay, time for some quick practice together. On this slide, you'll see different numbers, and your job is to convert them to the requested form. You can raise your hand or tell me your answers."
(Go through each one, allowing students to respond. Provide immediate feedback and explanations.)
"1. 1.6 (to mixed number)" (Expected answer: 1 6/10)
"2. 2 3/10 (to decimal)" (Expected answer: 2.3)
"3. 5/4 (to mixed number)" (Expected answer: 1 1/4)
"4. 1 1/2 (to improper fraction)" (Expected answer: 3/2)
"Fantastic work, team! You're doing a great job moving between these different number forms."
Your Turn! Independent Practice (Slide 7, 10 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 7: "Your Turn! Independent Practice")
"Now it's your chance to show off your skills independently. I'm handing out the Worksheet: Beyond the Whole. Your task is to complete this worksheet, converting between decimals greater than one, mixed numbers, and improper fractions. Remember all the strategies we just learned. Take your time, read the instructions carefully, and do your best!"
(Distribute the worksheets. Circulate around the room, providing individual support and answering questions as needed. Observe student understanding and common errors.)
Wrap-Up: What Did We Learn? & Cool-Down (Slide 8, 5 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 8: "Wrap-Up: What Did We Learn?")
"Alright class, let's bring it back together. What are the most important discoveries you made today about numbers that are greater than one?"
(Solicit a few responses. Reinforce key concepts: decimals, mixed numbers, and improper fractions all represent quantities greater than one, and how to convert between them.)
"Wonderful! Remember, being able to understand and switch between these different ways of writing numbers helps us tackle all sorts of real-world math problems, from recipes to measurements. It shows you that math is full of connections!
"Before you head out, I have one final, quick question for you. Please grab your Cool Down: Greater Than One Check and answer the questions on it. This will give me a snapshot of what clicked for you today."
(Distribute the cool-down slips. Collect cool-down slips and completed worksheets as students finish.)
"Thank you everyone! You truly went beyond the whole today!"
Warm Up
What's Bigger? Warm Up
Directions: Think about these scenarios. How would you describe the total amount using words or numbers?
Scenario 1:
(Imagine you have two whole pizzas, and then a slice from a third pizza that was cut into 8 equal pieces. You have 2 full pizzas and 1 slice.)
Scenario 2:
(Imagine a race where someone ran 1 and a half laps around a track. The track is divided into fourths.)
Scenario 3:
(You have a dollar and three quarters in your pocket.)
Cool Down
Quick Check: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One
Directions: Answer the following questions to show what you learned today.
-
Write 1.4 as a mixed number:
-
Write 7/3 as a mixed number:
-
Write 2 1/2 as an improper fraction:
-
In your own words, explain how decimals, mixed numbers, and improper fractions can all represent amounts greater than one.
Worksheet
Beyond the Whole: Decimals & Fractions Greater Than One Worksheet
Directions: Complete the following conversions.
Part 1: Decimals to Mixed Numbers
- Write 1.8 as a mixed number:
- Write 3.2 as a mixed number:
- Write 2.75 as a mixed number:
Part 2: Mixed Numbers to Decimals
- Write 1 5/10 as a decimal:
- Write 4 1/2 as a decimal:
- Write 3 25/100 as a decimal:
Part 3: Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
- Write 1 3/4 as an improper fraction:
- Write 2 1/3 as an improper fraction:
- Write 3 5/6 as an improper fraction:
Part 4: Improper Fractions to Mixed Numbers
- Write 9/5 as a mixed number:
- Write 11/4 as a mixed number:
- Write 7/2 as a mixed number:
Answer Key
Beyond the Whole: Answer Key
Part 1: Decimals to Mixed Numbers
- Write 1.8 as a mixed number: 1 8/10
Thought Process: The whole number is 1. The decimal .8 is "eight tenths", so the fraction is 8/10. - Write 3.2 as a mixed number: 3 2/10
Thought Process: The whole number is 3. The decimal .2 is "two tenths", so the fraction is 2/10. - Write 2.75 as a mixed number: 2 75/100
Thought Process: The whole number is 2. The decimal .75 is " seventy-five hundredths", so the fraction is 75/100.
Part 2: Mixed Numbers to Decimals
- Write 1 5/10 as a decimal: 1.5
Thought Process: The whole number is 1. The fraction 5/10 is "five tenths", so the decimal part is .5. Combine for 1.5. - Write 4 1/2 as a decimal: 4.5
Thought Process: The whole number is 4. The fraction 1/2 is equivalent to 5/10, or "five tenths", so the decimal part is .5. Combine for 4.5. - Write 3 25/100 as a decimal: 3.25
Thought Process: The whole number is 3. The fraction 25/100 is "twenty-five hundredths", so the decimal part is .25. Combine for 3.25.
Part 3: Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions
- Write 1 3/4 as an improper fraction: 7/4
Thought Process: Multiply the whole number (1) by the denominator (4): 1 * 4 = 4. Add the numerator (3): 4 + 3 = 7. Keep the same denominator (4). So, 7/4. - Write 2 1/3 as an improper fraction: 7/3
Thought Process: Multiply the whole number (2) by the denominator (3): 2 * 3 = 6. Add the numerator (1): 6 + 1 = 7. Keep the same denominator (3). So, 7/3. - Write 3 5/6 as an improper fraction: 23/6
Thought Process: Multiply the whole number (3) by the denominator (6): 3 * 6 = 18. Add the numerator (5): 18 + 5 = 23. Keep the same denominator (6). So, 23/6.
Part 4: Improper Fractions to Mixed Numbers
- Write 9/5 as a mixed number: 1 4/5
Thought Process: Divide the numerator (9) by the denominator (5): 9 ÷ 5 = 1 with a remainder of 4. The whole number is 1, the new numerator is 4, and the denominator stays 5. So, 1 4/5. - Write 11/4 as a mixed number: 2 3/4
Thought Process: Divide the numerator (11) by the denominator (4): 11 ÷ 4 = 2 with a remainder of 3. The whole number is 2, the new numerator is 3, and the denominator stays 4. So, 2 3/4. - Write 7/2 as a mixed number: 3 1/2
Thought Process: Divide the numerator (7) by the denominator (2): 7 ÷ 2 = 3 with a remainder of 1. The whole number is 3, the new numerator is 1, and the denominator stays 2. So, 3 1/2.
Quick Check Cool Down: Answer Key
- Write 1.4 as a mixed number: 1 4/10
Thought Process: The whole number is 1. The decimal .4 is "four tenths", so the fraction is 4/10. - Write 7/3 as a mixed number: 2 1/3
Thought Process: Divide 7 by 3, which is 2 with a remainder of 1. So, 2 1/3. - Write 2 1/2 as an improper fraction: 5/2
Thought Process: Multiply the whole number (2) by the denominator (2): 2 * 2 = 4. Add the numerator (1): 4 + 1 = 5. Keep the same denominator (2). So, 5/2. - In your own words, explain how decimals, mixed numbers, and improper fractions can all represent amounts greater than one.
Expected Answer: They are all different ways to write numbers that are larger than a single whole thing. For example, one and a half can be written as 1.5, 1 1/2, or 3/2. (Other valid explanations related to counting all the parts or combining wholes and parts.)}
Lesson Plan
Decimal-Fraction Connection
Students will be able to convert decimals (tenths and hundredths) to fractions and fractions to decimals, understanding their equivalent values.
Understanding the connection between decimals and fractions is crucial for developing strong number sense and is a fundamental skill for more advanced math concepts like percentages and algebra. It helps students see that different representations can describe the same quantity.
Audience
4th Grade
Time
60 minutes
Approach
Through visual aids, direct instruction, guided practice, and independent application.
Prep
Teacher Preparation
15 minutes
- Review the Decimal-Fraction Connection Slide Deck to familiarize yourself with the content and pacing.
* Print copies of the Match the Parts Worksheet for each student.
* Prepare the Answer Key: Match the Parts for grading.
* Read through the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions to internalize key phrases and discussion points.
* Ensure projector and computer are working properly for the slide presentation.
Step 1
Warm-Up: Picture This!
5 minutes
Begin the lesson with the Warm Up: Picture This! activity. Display the warm-up questions and ask students to think about how they represent parts of a whole using pictures or simple fractions. Briefly discuss their responses to activate prior knowledge.
Step 2
Introduction to Decimals and Fractions
10 minutes
Use the first few slides of the Slide Deck: Decimal-Fraction Connection to introduce or review what decimals and fractions are. Emphasize that both are ways to represent parts of a whole. Use visual examples of tenths and hundredths.
Step 3
Connecting Tenths
15 minutes
Transition to showing the relationship between tenths as fractions and tenths as decimals using the Slide Deck: Decimal-Fraction Connection. Provide clear examples and model how to write 0.1 as 1/10 and vice-versa. Engage students with questions from the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions to ensure understanding.
Step 4
Connecting Hundredths
15 minutes
Extend the concept to hundredths. Use the Slide Deck: Decimal-Fraction Connection to demonstrate how 0.01 is 1/100. Provide various examples and guided practice, referring to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for prompts and explanations. Pay attention to common misconceptions.
Step 5
Independent Practice: Match the Parts Worksheet
10 minutes
Distribute the Worksheet: Match the Parts. Students will work independently to match decimal representations with their equivalent fractional forms. Circulate to provide support and answer questions. Remind them to show their work or reasoning if applicable.
Step 6
Cool-Down: Quick Check
5 minutes
Conclude the lesson with the Cool Down: Quick Check activity. This will serve as a quick assessment of their understanding. Collect the cool-down responses and the worksheets.
Slide Deck
Decimal-Fraction Connection: Connecting the Parts!
Today, we'll explore how decimals and fractions are like two sides of the same coin!
Welcome students to the lesson. Engage them with the title and ask what they think 'connecting the dots' might mean in math. This lesson is about understanding how decimals and fractions are related, like two different ways to say the same thing. Refer to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for opening remarks.
What's a Decimal?
• Decimals show parts of a whole number.
• They use a decimal point to separate the whole from the part.
• Each place value after the decimal point tells us how many parts out of 10, 100, or 1000 we have.
Examples: 0.5 (five tenths), 0.25 (twenty-five hundredths).
Ask students what they already know about decimals. Explain that decimals are a way to write parts of a whole, especially when the whole is divided into 10, 100, 1000, etc., parts. Give an example like money (quarters, dimes, pennies) or measuring with a ruler. Refer to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for guiding questions.
And What's a Fraction?
• Fractions also show parts of a whole.
• The numerator (top number) tells us how many parts we have.
• The denominator (bottom number) tells us how many equal parts make up the whole.
Examples: 1/2 (one half), 3/4 (three quarters).
Review fractions. Ask what they know about numerators and denominators. Explain that fractions also show parts of a whole. Emphasize that both decimals and fractions describe the same idea: a piece of something bigger. Refer to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for explanations and examples.
Tenths: Two Ways to Say the Same Thing!
One Tenth
• Decimal: 0.1
• Fraction: 1/10
They both mean one part out of ten equal parts!
Let's try some:
• 0.7 = ?/10
• 4/10 = 0.?
This is where we explicitly link tenths. Use a visual (like a 10-frame or a bar divided into 10 parts) to show 0.1 and 1/10. Explain that 'one tenth' sounds the same because it IS the same! Go through several examples like 0.3 and 3/10. Refer to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for clear instructions and prompts.
Hundredths: More Connections!
One Hundredth
• Decimal: 0.01
• Fraction: 1/100
They both mean one part out of one hundred equal parts!
Let's try some:
• 0.25 = ?/100
• 6/100 = 0.?
Now extend to hundredths. Use a 10x10 grid to visually represent 0.01 and 1/100. Explain that 'one hundredth' also sounds the same. Emphasize that the number of digits after the decimal point tells us the denominator (one digit = tenths, two digits = hundredths). Provide several examples. Address common errors like writing 0.5 as 5/100 instead of 5/10. Refer to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for detailed explanations and common misconceptions.
Practice Time: What's the Match?
Match the decimal to its fraction:
- 0.4
- 0.08
- 9/10
- 15/100
A. 8/100
B. 0.9
C. 4/10
D. 0.15
Guide students through these practice problems. Encourage them to explain their reasoning. Use whiteboards or verbal responses. This is a good opportunity for formative assessment before the independent worksheet. Refer to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for additional guiding questions.
Your Turn! Independent Practice
Now it's time to show what you know!
Complete the Worksheet: Match the Parts on your own.
Explain that students will now work on their Worksheet: Match the Parts independently. Remind them to take their time and use what they've learned. Circulate and assist as needed. Refer to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for instructions on the worksheet.
Wrap-Up: What Did We Learn?
• Decimals and fractions both represent parts of a whole.
• Tenths (0.1, 1/10) and Hundredths (0.01, 1/100) are key connections.
• Understanding this helps us build strong math skills!
Ask students to reflect on what they learned. Emphasize the main takeaway: decimals and fractions are different ways to express the same value—parts of a whole. Preview that this skill is important for future math. Refer to the Script: Connecting Decimals & Fractions for closing remarks and to introduce the Cool Down: Quick Check.
Script
Connecting Decimals & Fractions: Teacher Script
Warm-Up: Picture This! (5 minutes)
(Display Warm Up: Picture This! on the screen)
"Good morning/afternoon everyone! Let's start with a quick warm-up. Take a look at the images on the screen. What do you notice about them? How are they similar, and how are they different? Think about how they represent parts of a whole."
(Allow 1-2 minutes for students to observe and think. Call on a few students to share their initial thoughts. Guide them towards concepts of 'parts of a whole' or 'portions'.)
"Great observations! Today, we're going to dive deeper into understanding different ways we can show these 'parts of a whole.' We'll be connecting some ideas you might already know."
Introduction to Decimals and Fractions (10 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 2: "What's a Decimal?")
"Alright, let's start with decimals. Can anyone tell me, in your own words, what a decimal is? Where have you seen decimals before?"
(Listen for answers like 'parts of a whole,' 'numbers with a point,' 'money.' Affirm correct ideas and clarify as needed.)
"Excellent! You're right. Decimals are a special way to write numbers that are parts of a whole. They use a decimal point to show us where the whole numbers end and the parts begin. Each place value after the decimal point tells us how many parts we have out of 10, or 100, or even 1000! For example, 0.5 means five tenths, and 0.25 means twenty-five hundredths. We often see them with money, like 2 dollars and 50 cents, written as $2.50."
(Advance to Slide 3: "And What's a Fraction?")
"Now, let's talk about fractions. We've worked with fractions quite a bit. What is a fraction, and what are the two main parts of a fraction called?"
(Encourage students to recall 'numerator' and 'denominator.' Remind them of what each part represents.)
"Exactly! Fractions also show parts of a whole. The top number, the numerator, tells us how many parts we have, and the bottom number, the denominator, tells us how many equal parts make up the whole. So, 1/2 means one part out of two equal parts, and 3/4 means three parts out of four equal parts.
"Do you notice a connection already? Both decimals and fractions are talking about parts of a whole! Today, we're going to learn how to connect these two different ways of writing numbers."
Connecting Tenths (15 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 4: "Tenths: Two Ways to Say the Same Thing!")
"Let's look at tenths first. Imagine a chocolate bar divided into 10 equal pieces. If you eat one piece, you've eaten one out of ten pieces. How would you write that as a fraction?"
(Wait for '1/10'.)
"Perfect, 1/10. Now, how would we write that as a decimal? Think about how we say it: 'one tenth'."
(Guide them to 0.1.)
"Yes! 0.1. Take a look at the slide. Both 0.1 and 1/10 mean one part out of ten equal parts. They are equivalent! The digit right after the decimal point is the tenths place.
"Let's try some together. If I have 0.7, how would I write that as a fraction? Think: 'seven tenths'."
(Write 7/10 on the board. Then, point to the next example.)
"And if I have the fraction 4/10, how would I write that as a decimal? How do we say 4/10?"
(Write 0.4 on the board. Continue with a few more examples, like 0.2 and 2/10, or 6/10 and 0.6, until students are comfortable.)
"Any questions about connecting tenths to decimals and decimals to tenths?"
Connecting Hundredths (15 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 5: "Hundredths: More Connections!")
"Now, let's make it a little trickier, but still very similar. What if we divide our whole into 100 equal parts? For example, think about a dollar. A dollar has 100 pennies. If you have one penny, you have one out of 100 parts of a dollar. How would you write that as a fraction?"
(Wait for '1/100'.)
"Exactly! 1/100. And how would we write that as a decimal? We say 'one hundredth'."
(Guide them to 0.01.)
"Yes! 0.01. Notice how we need two digits after the decimal point for hundredths. The first digit is for tenths, and the second is for hundredths.
"Let's try some: If I have 0.25, how many hundredths is that? How would I write it as a fraction?"
(Write 25/100. Emphasize that 0.25 is 'twenty-five hundredths'.)
"What about the fraction 6/100? How would that look as a decimal? Remember, we need two places after the decimal!"
(Write 0.06. Carefully explain why it's not 0.6. '0.6 is six tenths, or 60 hundredths. We want six hundredths, so we need that zero in the tenths place to hold its value.')
(Continue with examples like 0.50 and 50/100, 3/100 and 0.03, 0.75 and 75/100. Correct any misunderstandings about place value carefully.)
"Any questions about hundredths? Remember, the number of decimal places tells you if it's tenths (one decimal place) or hundredths (two decimal places)."
Practice Time: What's the Match? (Slide 6, 5 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 6: "Practice Time: What's the Match?")
"Okay, let's do a quick practice round together. On this slide, you'll see some decimals and fractions. Your job is to match the decimal to its equivalent fraction. You can raise your hand or tell me your answers."
(Go through each one, allowing students to respond. Provide immediate feedback and explanations.)
"1. 0.4" (Expected answer: C. 4/10)
"2. 0.08" (Expected answer: A. 8/100)
"3. 9/10" (Expected answer: B. 0.9)
"4. 15/100" (Expected answer: D. 0.15)
"Excellent work, everyone! It looks like you're really getting the hang of this."
Your Turn! Independent Practice (Slide 7, 10 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 7: "Your Turn! Independent Practice")
"Now it's your turn to show what you know independently. I'm going to hand out the Worksheet: Match the Parts. Your task is to complete this worksheet, matching the decimals to their fractional equivalents and vice-versa. Remember to use what we just learned about tenths and hundredths. Take your time, read the instructions carefully, and do your best!"
(Distribute the worksheets. Circulate around the room, providing individual support and answering questions as needed. Observe student understanding and common errors.)
Wrap-Up: What Did We Learn? & Cool-Down (Slide 8, 5 minutes)
(Advance to Slide 8: "Wrap-Up: What Did We Learn?")
"Alright class, let's bring it back together. What are the most important things you learned today about decimals and fractions?"
(Solicit a few responses. Reinforce key concepts: both represent parts of a whole, how to convert tenths and hundredths.)
"Fantastic! Remember, understanding that decimals and fractions are just different ways to express the same quantity—parts of a whole—is a very powerful skill in math. It will help you with so many other topics as you continue your math journey.
"Before you go, I have one final, quick question for you. Please grab your Cool Down: Quick Check and answer the question on it. This will help me see what stuck with you today."
(Distribute the cool-down slips. Collect cool-down slips and completed worksheets as students finish.)
"Thank you everyone! You did a wonderful job connecting the parts today!"
Warm Up
Picture This! Warm Up
Directions: Look at the pictures below. How would you describe the shaded part of each picture using words or numbers?
Picture 1:
(Image of a circle divided into 10 equal parts, with 3 parts shaded.)
Picture 2:
(Image of a 10x10 grid with 45 squares shaded.)
Picture 3:
(Image of a rectangle divided into 10 equal parts, with 7 parts shaded.)
Cool Down
Quick Check: Decimal-Fraction Connection
Directions: Answer the following questions to show what you learned today.
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Write 0.6 as a fraction:
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Write 3/100 as a decimal:
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In your own words, explain one thing you learned today about how decimals and fractions are related.
Worksheet
Match the Parts: Decimal-Fraction Worksheet
Directions: For each problem, draw a line to match the decimal on the left to its equivalent fraction on the right.
Part 1: Matching
- 0.3 A. 7/100
- 0.7 B. 3/10
- 0.07 C. 7/10
- 0.45 D. 45/100
- 0.01 E. 1/100
- 0.9 F. 9/10
Part 2: Convert It!
Directions: Convert the following decimals to fractions, or fractions to decimals.
-
Write 0.2 as a fraction:
-
Write 8/10 as a decimal:
-
Write 0.12 as a fraction:
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Write 20/100 as a decimal:
-
Write 0.05 as a fraction:
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Write 6/100 as a decimal:
Answer Key
Match the Parts: Answer Key
Part 1: Matching
- 0.3 B. 3/10
Thought Process: 0.3 is read as "three tenths." Tenths means the denominator is 10, and three is the numerator. - 0.7 C. 7/10
Thought Process: 0.7 is read as "seven tenths." Tenths means the denominator is 10, and seven is the numerator. - 0.07 A. 7/100
Thought Process: 0.07 is read as "seven hundredths." Hundredths means the denominator is 100, and seven is the numerator. The two decimal places indicate hundredths. - 0.45 D. 45/100
Thought Process: 0.45 is read as "forty-five hundredths." Hundredths means the denominator is 100, and forty-five is the numerator. The two decimal places indicate hundredths. - 0.01 E. 1/100
Thought Process: 0.01 is read as "one hundredth." Hundredths means the denominator is 100, and one is the numerator. The two decimal places indicate hundredths. - 0.9 F. 9/10
Thought Process: 0.9 is read as "nine tenths." Tenths means the denominator is 10, and nine is the numerator.
Part 2: Convert It!
- Write 0.2 as a fraction: 2/10
Thought Process: 0.2 is "two tenths." Two is the numerator, and tenths means 10 is the denominator. - Write 8/10 as a decimal: 0.8
Thought Process: 8/10 is "eight tenths." For tenths, there is one decimal place, so it's 0.8. - Write 0.12 as a fraction: 12/100
Thought Process: 0.12 is "twelve hundredths." Twelve is the numerator, and hundredths means 100 is the denominator. The two decimal places indicate hundredths. - Write 20/100 as a decimal: 0.20 (or 0.2)
Thought Process: 20/100 is "twenty hundredths." For hundredths, there are two decimal places, so it's 0.20. Note that 0.20 is equivalent to 0.2. - Write 0.05 as a fraction: 5/100
Thought Process: 0.05 is "five hundredths." Five is the numerator, and hundredths means 100 is the denominator. The two decimal places indicate hundredths. - Write 6/100 as a decimal: 0.06
Thought Process: 6/100 is "six hundredths." For hundredths, there are two decimal places, so the 6 goes in the hundredths place, and a 0 fills the tenths place, making it 0.06.
Quick Check Cool Down: Answer Key
- Write 0.6 as a fraction: 6/10
Thought Process: 0.6 is read as "six tenths." Six is the numerator, and tenths means 10 is the denominator. - Write 3/100 as a decimal: 0.03
Thought Process: 3/100 is read as "three hundredths." For hundredths, there are two decimal places, so the 3 goes in the hundredths place, and a 0 fills the tenths place, making it 0.03. - In your own words, explain one thing you learned today about how decimals and fractions are related.
Expected Answer: Both decimals and fractions are ways to represent parts of a whole. (Other valid explanations include specific examples of conversions or the relationship between place value and denominators like 10 or 100.)