Go Math! Grade 3, Chapter 8: Understand Fractions
In this unit, your child learns that a fraction names equal parts of a whole or of a group. They read and write fractions like 3/4, place them on a number line, and see that some fractions, like 4/4, equal 1. Sharing from the division units helps here, and the next unit turns to comparing fractions to find which is greater.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Chapter 8?
- Naming fractions of a whole and of a group, such as 2/6 of a set of 6 crayons being 2 crayons. Learn more: What a fraction like 3/4 means
- Locating fractions like 1/3 and 2/3 on a number line by splitting the space from 0 to 1 into 3 equal lengths. Learn more: Fractions on a number line
- Writing whole numbers as fractions, such as 1 = 4/4 and 2 = 8/4, and spotting fractions equal to 1. 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
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
Tariq is painting this paper strip blue for a class banner. So far he has painted the blue parts. What fraction of the strip does he still need to paint?
- 5/3
- 3/8
- 5/8
How you can help
- Line up 6 crayons, 2 of them red, and ask what fraction of the group is red (2/6), then what fraction is not (4/6).
- Put a strip of tape on the floor marked 0 and 1, split it into 3 equal steps, and have your child stand on 1/3 and 2/3.
- Break a granola bar into 4 equal pieces and ask how many fourths make the whole bar, then write it as 4/4 = 1.
Where kids can get stuck
- Calling uneven pieces fourths because there are 4 of them, without checking they are the same size.
- Counting the 0 mark as the first jump on a number line, so 1/3 lands on 0 instead of the first mark after it.
- Writing the shaded parts over the unshaded parts, so 2 of 6 shaded becomes 2/4.
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
- fraction
- A number that names equal parts of a whole.
- numerator
- The top number of a fraction; it tells how many equal parts we have.
- denominator
- The bottom number of a fraction; it tells how many equal parts make the whole.
- unit fraction
- A fraction for one equal part, like 1/3 or 1/8.
- whole
- All of something; in fractions, the thing being split into equal parts.
- number line
- A line with numbers placed in order at equal spaces.
- equal parts
- Parts that are all exactly the same size.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with fraction basics?
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 Go Math! Grade 3 Chapter 8 cover?
Go Math! Grade 3 Chapter 8 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.