---
title: "Line plots with fractions of a unit"
description: "Make a line plot to display a data set of measurements in fractions of a unit (1/2, 1/4, 1/8); use operations on fractions to solve problems involving data in line plots (e.g. redistribute total equal"
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/line-plots-with-fractions-of-a-unit-mt_IHipFGTFEY
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/line-plots-with-fractions-of-a-unit-mt_IHipFGTFEY.md
retrieved: 2026-09-02
---

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# Line plots with fractions of a unit

Make a line plot to display a data set of measurements in fractions of a unit (1/2, 1/4, 1/8); use operations on fractions to solve problems involving data in line plots (e.g. redistribute total equally)

Subject: Mathematics · Area: Data & Statistics · Ages 10 to 11
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/line-plots-with-fractions-of-a-unit-mt_IHipFGTFEY

## Ready when they can

- Create a line plot showing lengths measured to the nearest 1/8 inch
- Use the line plot to find the total of all measurements by adding fractions
- Solve: 'If the total liquid were redistributed equally among all beakers, how much would each have?'

## Lesson: Line plots with fractions of a unit

You already know how to read a line plot and how to add fractions with different denominators. Now put those two skills together. A line plot can show measurements like pencil lengths in fractions of an inch, and once the plot is made, you can add up the numbers on it to answer real questions.

*(drawing: Eight pencils were measured to the nearest eighth of an inch. The plot shows how many pencils were each length.)*

**Example.** To find the total length of all the pencils, add each length once for every pencil at that mark: 1/4 + 1/4 + 3/8 + 1/2 + 1/2 + 1/2 + 5/8 + 5/8. Rewrite everything in eighths first, then add. The total comes out to 3 5/8 inches.

**Tip.** When you add fractions from a line plot, find a common denominator first. If every mark on the plot is already in eighths, that part is done for you.

**Example.** A line plot can also help you share a total fairly. Four beakers hold 1/2, 1/2, 1/4, and 1/4 cup of water. Poured together, that is 1 1/2 cups. Split evenly among the 4 beakers, each one gets 3/8 cup.

**Recap.** Read how many measurements sit at each mark on the plot, then add those fractions to find totals or split amounts equally.

## Practice

8 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Needs first

- [Adding Fractions (Unlike Denominators)](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/adding-fractions-unlike-denominators-mt_14T5yPXUq_)
- [Measurement Line Plots](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/measurement-line-plots-mt_42QD6nYjiZ)

## Opens up

- [Comparing measurements](https://lightmysky.com/learn/mathematics/comparing-measurements-mt_XSXnTQoQ4l)