Illuminations: Fraction Model II

Fraction Model II


This tool explores several representations for fractions using adjustable numerators and denominators. You can see decimal and percent equivalents, as well as a model that represents the fraction.

Instructions

 
This applet allows values for the numerator and denominator up to 20.

Adjust the value of the numerator and denominator by moving the slider or using the up and down arrows.

Choosing between Circle, Rectangle, and Set Model will show different representations of the fraction. Checking the Show Sections box will divide the model into a number of pieces equal to the denominator.

The decimal and percent values that are equivalent to the fraction are shown.

Fraction Model I restricts the range of the numerator from 0 to 20, and the denominator is limited to benchmark values of 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10 and 20. Fraction Model III allows values up to 100 for both the numerator and denominator.

Exploration

 
Can you create two different fractions (with different numerators and with different denominators) that have the same decimal and percent values? What is similar about such fractions?

  

NCTM Resources

Making Sense of Fractions, Ratios, and Proportions

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