Three of four equal parts
Split one bar into 4 equal sections and shade 3.
Answer: 3/4 There are four equal parts altogether and three are shaded.
Fractions · Grades 3–5
Fractions Explained for Kids with Pictures
A fraction names equal parts of one whole. The bottom number tells how many equal parts make the whole; the top number tells how many parts we mean.
What children need to know first
- Parts must be equal in size for a shape to show a fraction of that whole.
- In 3/4, the denominator 4 means the whole is divided into four equal parts, and the numerator 3 means three parts are considered.
Step-by-step explanation
- Choose one whole, such as one same-sized rectangle.
- Divide it into the number of equal parts named by the denominator.
- Shade or select the number of parts named by the numerator.
- Read the fraction using numerator over denominator.
Worked examples
One half of a sandwich
Cut one same-size sandwich into 2 equal pieces and take 1 piece.
Answer: 1/2 One of two equal parts represents one half.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Dividing a picture into unequal parts. Redraw the whole so sections have the same size.
- Thinking a larger denominator always means a larger fraction. Compare how large each equal part becomes.
Parent teaching tips
- Fold a paper strip into equal sections before writing the fraction.
- Keep the same whole when comparing fractions, so the parts refer to equal sized wholes.
Independent practice
- A shape is split into 5 equal parts and 2 are shaded. What fraction is shaded?
- Draw a bar for 3/6 and label the numerator and denominator.
Practice answers
- 2/5
- 3 shaded of 6 equal parts
Explore related skills
Practice this skill
Open the matching Grades 3–5 activity for Fractions. You can print its worksheet with questions only or an answer key.