Everyday Mathematics Grade 4, Unit 3: Fractions and Decimals
In this unit, your child finds equivalent fractions, compares fractions with different denominators, and writes tenths and hundredths as decimals. It is a shift from the multiplication and geometry before it, though multiplying a numerator and denominator by the same number puts those facts to use. Next, the class returns to multiplying bigger numbers.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 3?
- Finding equivalent fractions by multiplying the numerator and denominator by the same number, and drawing pictures to show why 3/4 = 6/8. Learn more: Why fractions like 3/4 and 6/8 are equal
- Comparing fractions such as 2/3 and 5/6 by finding a common denominator, or by checking each one against 1/2. Learn more: Comparing fractions like 2/3 and 5/6
- Writing fractions with denominators of 10 or 100 as decimals, such as 7/10 = 0.7 and 45/100 = 0.45. Learn more: Writing fractions as decimals, like 0.62
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
What is the missing number? 4/5 = ?/10
- 4
- 9
- 8
How you can help
- Fold a sheet of paper into fourths, then fold it in half again, and ask your child how many eighths cover the same space as three fourths.
- Compare fractions at snack time: would you rather have 2/3 or 3/8 of a granola bar? Ask your child to decide and explain, perhaps by comparing each to one half.
- Read prices together, since a dollar has 100 cents, so $0.45 is 45 hundredths of a dollar. Ask your child to write a few prices as fractions over 100.
Where kids can get stuck
- Multiplying only the denominator, so 3/4 turns into 3/8, which is a smaller amount rather than an equivalent fraction.
- Thinking 1/6 is bigger than 1/3 because 6 is a bigger number than 3.
- Writing 7/100 as 0.7, leaving out the zero in the tenths place, which makes the decimal ten times too big.
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
- numerator
- The top number of a fraction, which tells how many equal parts are counted.
- denominator
- The bottom number of a fraction, which tells how many equal parts make the whole.
- equivalent fractions
- Fractions that name the same amount, such as 3/4 and 6/8.
- common denominator
- A denominator two fractions share, such as sixths for 2/3 and 5/6.
- benchmark fraction
- A familiar fraction, like 1/2 or 1, used to compare other fractions.
- decimal
- A number written with a decimal point to show tenths and hundredths, such as 0.45.
- tenths
- Parts of a whole cut into 10 equal pieces, written like 3/10 or 0.3.
- hundredths
- Parts of a whole cut into 100 equal pieces, written like 45/100 or 0.45.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with comparing fractions and decimals?
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 4 Unit 3 cover?
Everyday Mathematics Grade 4 Unit 3 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.