Mathematics
Grade 5
15 min
Compare decimals and fractions on number lines
Compare decimals and fractions on number lines
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify and locate decimals and fractions on a number line.
Convert simple fractions to decimals and decimals to fractions.
Accurately place both decimals and fractions on the same number line.
Use a number line to compare the relative sizes of decimals and fractions.
Use comparison symbols (<, >, =) to correctly state the relationship between a decimal and a fraction.
Order a set of mixed decimals and fractions from least to greatest or greatest to least using a number line.
Have you ever wondered if 0.5 of a cookie is more or less than 1/2 of a cookie? 🍪 Today, we'll learn how to see exactly where these numbers live!
In this lesson, you'll discover how to place both decimals and fractions on a number line. This skill will help you eas...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
Number LineA straight line with numbers placed at equal intervals along its length, used to show the order of numbers.A number line from 0 to 1 with marks at 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.
DecimalA way to write numbers that are not whole numbers, using a decimal point to separate the whole part from the fractional part (e.g., 0.5, 1.25).0.75 represents seventy-five hundredths.
FractionA way to represent a part of a whole, written as a numerator (top number) over a denominator (bottom number) (e.g., 1/2, 3/4).3/4 represents three out of four equal parts of a whole.
Equivalent FormsDifferent ways to write the same value. For example, 0.5 and 1/2 are equivalent because they represent the same amount.0.25 is equivalent to 1/4.
Benchmark NumbersCommon, easy-to-understand numbers...
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Core Formulas
Converting a Fraction to a Decimal
$ \text{Decimal} = \frac{\text{Numerator}}{\text{Denominator}} $
To convert a fraction to a decimal, divide the numerator by the denominator. This helps you place the fraction on a number line more easily.
Converting a Decimal to a Fraction
$ 0.X = \frac{X}{10} \quad \text{and} \quad 0.XY = \frac{XY}{100} $ (then simplify)
To convert a decimal to a fraction, write the decimal as a fraction with a denominator that is a power of 10 (10, 100, 1000, etc.), then simplify the fraction to its lowest terms. This helps in comparing with other fractions.
Comparing Numbers on a Number Line
The number located further to the right on a number line is always greater than the number to its left.
After placing both numbers on the number line, simpl...
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Challenging
Which list correctly orders the following numbers from least to greatest: 1.2, 7/5, 1.25, 9/8, 1.5?
A.9/8, 1.2, 1.25, 7/5, 1.5
B.1.2, 1.25, 9/8, 7/5, 1.5
C.9/8, 7/5, 1.2, 1.25, 1.5
D.1.2, 9/8, 1.25, 7/5, 1.5
Challenging
Point M is exactly halfway between 0.2 and 4/5 on a number line. What is the value of Point M?
A.0.4
B.0.5
C.3/5
D.1/2
Challenging
Point P is located on a number line slightly to the right of 0.8. Which of these values could be Point P?
A.4/5
B.0.79
C.7/9
D.5/6
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