Everyday Mathematics Grade 3, Unit 7: Fractions
In this unit, your child compares fractions and finds equivalent fractions, ones that name the same amount, like 1/2 and 2/4. Children also measure to the nearest half and quarter inch and show the lengths on a line plot. It follows the patterns and two-step stories of the last unit, and the next unit returns to multiplication and division, using facts to divide.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 7?
- Comparing fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator, and finding equivalent fractions such as 2/4 and 1/2 or 3/1 and 3. Learn more about finding equal fractions, like 1/2 = 2/4: Finding equal fractions, like 1/2 = 2/4 · Learn more about comparing fractions by size
- Measuring lengths to the nearest quarter inch and showing a set of measurements on a line plot marked in halves and fourths. Learn more: Measuring to the nearest quarter inch
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
A pizza is cut into 6 equal slices. Which fraction names the whole pizza?
- 1/6
- 6/1
- 6/6
How you can help
- Share a pizza or a pan of brownies already cut into equal pieces and ask: would you rather have 3/8 or 3/4 of it? Talk about why the size of the pieces matters.
- Fold two same-size strips of paper, one into halves and one into fourths, and lay them side by side to show that 1/2 and 2/4 cover the same length.
- Measure everyone's hand or shoe to the nearest quarter inch, then mark each length with an X on a quick line plot and talk about what it shows.
Where kids can get stuck
- Deciding 3/8 is greater than 3/4 because 8 is larger than 4, forgetting that eighths are smaller pieces.
- Thinking 2/4 and 1/2 cannot be equal because the numbers are different, though they cover the same amount.
- Reading the mark halfway between 2 and 3 inches as 2 1/4 instead of 2 1/2.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- equivalent fractions
- Fractions that name the same amount, like 1/2 and 2/4.
- compare
- To decide which amount is greater, which is less, or whether they are equal.
- numerator
- The top number in a fraction; it tells how many equal parts are counted.
- denominator
- The bottom number in a fraction; it tells how many equal parts make the whole.
- greater than
- More than; shown with the symbol >.
- less than
- Fewer than; shown with the symbol <.
- quarter inch
- One fourth of an inch; four quarter inches make 1 inch.
- line plot
- A number line with an X above it for each piece of data.
Want to help your child master comparing fractions?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
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Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does Everyday Mathematics Grade 3 Unit 7 cover?
Everyday Mathematics Grade 3 Unit 7 covers these math standards. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.