Fractions on a number line (age 11+)
Order positive and negative integers, decimals, and fractions on a number line; use the symbols =, ≠, <, >, ≤, ≥ to compare values including negative numbers and mixed representations
What a learner can do afterwards
- Order a mixed set of positive and negative integers, decimals, and fractions
- Use the symbols =, ≠, <, >, ≤, ≥ correctly in mathematical statements
- Compare numbers presented in different forms such as 0.75 and 3/4
The lesson
A number line stretches both ways from zero. Negative numbers sit to the left of zero, positive numbers sit to the right. Decimals and fractions live on that same line too, tucked in between the whole numbers.
You already know =, <, and >. Three more symbols say almost the same thing: ≠ means not equal, ≤ means less than or equal to, and ≥ means greater than or equal to. On the number line, a number is always less than any number sitting to its right.
Maria sees two hints for the same amount: 0.75 and 3/4. She shades 3 of 4 equal parts of a bar. Both hints land on the exact same spot on the number line, so 0.75 = 3/4.
When two numbers look different, turn them into the same form first. Change a fraction to a decimal, or a decimal to a fraction, then check which spot sits further right.
Every number, negative or positive, decimal or fraction, has one true spot on the number line, and =, ≠, <, >, ≤, ≥ tell you exactly how two spots compare.
Watch it
Where it sits
Where this leads
Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.
8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.