Fractions
Convert mixed numbers and improper fractions
Rename quantities greater than one as a mixed number or a single improper fraction without changing their value.
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Subtract fractions from whole numbers
Rename part of a whole number as fractional units to subtract a fraction accurately.
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Express the whole number using the fraction’s denominator, or exchange one whole for enough fractional parts. Subtract the given fraction and simplify the answer.
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What this activity builds
Explain and use the equality between one whole and a denominator-sized group of fractional parts.
Worked example
Find 3 - 2/5.
2 3/5.
Rename 3 as 2 + 5/5. Removing 2/5 from 5/5 leaves 3/5, so the two remaining wholes give 2 3/5. Equivalently, 15/5 - 2/5 = 13/5.
Teaching notes
Make the practice count
- Use a whole bar partitioned into the required denominator to show the exchange.
- Write both the reduced whole count and the new fractional count before subtracting.
- Check that the difference is the stated fraction below the original whole number.
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