Math Expressions Grade 4, Unit 6: Fraction Concepts and Operations
In this unit, your child builds fractions from unit fractions, finds equivalent fractions, and compares fractions with different denominators. They add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers with like denominators and multiply a fraction by a whole number. It follows the measurement unit, where fractions of units appear, and leads into connecting fractions to decimals.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 6?
- Showing with fraction bars why 2/5 = 4/10, and finding equivalent fractions by multiplying the numerator and denominator by the same number. Learn more: Why fractions like 3/4 and 6/8 are equal
- Comparing fractions with unlike denominators by renaming them with a common denominator, or by comparing each to a benchmark like 1/2. Learn more: Comparing fractions like 2/3 and 5/6
- Seeing 5/4 as five one-fourths, and using that to add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers with the same denominator. Learn more: Adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers
- Finding the product of a whole number and a fraction, such as 3 × 2/8, as repeated groups of the same fraction. Learn more: Multiplying a fraction by a whole number
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 paper strips to show equal amounts: fold one into fifths and one into tenths, and ask your child how many tenths match 2/5.
- Talk through a no-bake snack recipe: if it calls for 2/3 cup of oats and you triple it, ask your child how many cups that is.
- Share a pizza with 8 slices: if one person eats 3/8 and another eats 2/8, ask what fraction was eaten and how much is left.
Where kids can get stuck
- Using the multiplying rule without being able to draw or explain why 2/5 and 4/10 are the same amount.
- Changing only the denominator to get a common denominator, rewriting 2/3 as 2/6 to compare it with 5/6.
- Adding the denominators too, so 5/12 + 6/12 is written as 11/24, smaller than one of the starting fractions.
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
- unit fraction
- A fraction with a numerator of 1, such as 1/4, naming one equal part.
- 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.
- mixed number
- A whole number and a fraction together, such as 2 1/4.
- decompose
- To break a number or fraction into smaller parts, like 5/6 = 2/6 + 3/6.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with fraction concepts?
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 Math Expressions Grade 4 Unit 6 cover?
Math Expressions Grade 4 Unit 6 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.