Mathematics Grade 6 15 min

Fractions of a number

Fractions of a number

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Introduction & Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives Define what 'a fraction of a number' means. Represent 'a fraction of a number' problems visually using models. Calculate a unit fraction of a whole number. Calculate any proper fraction of a whole number. Solve one-step word problems involving finding a fraction of a number. Explain the connection between 'of' and multiplication in fraction problems. Ever wondered how to figure out how much of your allowance you spent, or how many cookies are left if you ate a part of them? 🍪 In this lesson, you'll discover how to find a specific part of a whole amount using fractions. This skill is super useful for everyday situations, from sharing snacks to understanding discounts! Real-World Applications Calculating how much mon...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary

TermDefinitionExample FractionA number that represents a part of a whole. It is written as a numerator over a denominator.1/2 (one-half), 3/4 (three-fourths) NumeratorThe top number in a fraction, which tells you how many parts of the whole you have or are considering.In the fraction 2/3, the numerator is 2, meaning you have 2 parts. DenominatorThe bottom number in a fraction, which tells you the total number of equal parts the whole is divided into.In the fraction 2/3, the denominator is 3, meaning the whole is divided into 3 equal parts. Whole NumberA number without fractions or decimals (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3...). In 'fractions of a number' problems, this is the total amount you are taking a fraction of.In '1/2 of 10', the whole number is 10. Of (in mathematics)In the co...
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Core Formulas

Rule 1: Finding a Fraction of a Whole Number (Multiply Numerator then Divide) $$\frac{a}{b} \text{ of } N = \frac{a \times N}{b}$$ To find a fraction $\frac{a}{b}$ of a whole number $N$, you multiply the numerator ($a$) by the whole number ($N$), and then divide the result by the denominator ($b$). This is the most direct method. Rule 2: Finding a Fraction of a Whole Number (Divide then Multiply) $$\frac{a}{b} \text{ of } N = a \times \left(\frac{N}{b}\right)$$ An alternative method is to first divide the whole number ($N$) by the denominator ($b$) to find the value of one unit fraction. Then, multiply that result by the numerator ($a$). This method is often easier when the whole number is a multiple of the denominator.

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Sample Practice Questions

Challenging
3/5 of a number is 21. What is the original number?
A.28
B.35
C.42
D.12.6
Challenging
A recipe requires 3/4 of a 200g bag of flour. If you then use 1/2 of the remaining flour for another recipe, how much flour is left in the bag in grams?
A.25g
B.50g
C.75g
D.100g
Challenging
2/3 of a number is 24. What is 1/4 of that same number?
A.9
B.6
C.8
D.12

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