Reveal Math Grade 3, Unit 6: Fractions
In this unit, your child learns that fractions are numbers that name equal parts of a whole. Children use numerators and denominators, place fractions on a number line, compare fractions, and find equivalent ones like 2/3 and 4/6. Splitting shapes into equal parts connects to the area work just finished, and the next unit studies shapes and perimeter.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Unit 6?
- Building fractions from unit fractions, so 3/8 is three pieces of size 1/8, and the denominator, the bottom number, names the piece size. Learn more: What a fraction like 3/4 means
- Placing fractions on a number line by splitting 0 to 1 into equal lengths, and seeing that 4/4 lands right on 1. Learn more: Fractions on a number line
- Finding equivalent fractions such as 2/3 and 4/6, and comparing fractions by the number or the size of the pieces. 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
- Measure ingredients for a no-cook snack with 1/4, 1/3, and 1/2 measuring cups, and ask your child how many 1/4 cups it takes to make 1/2 cup.
- Fold one paper strip into thirds and another into sixths, then line them up to show that 2/3 and 4/6 are the same length.
- Split a short walk or a hallway into fourths and ask your child to point to where 1/4, 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4 of the way would be.
Where kids can get stuck
- Saying 1/6 is bigger than 1/3 because 6 is bigger than 3.
- Labeling a number line in fifths when it is split into fourths, by counting the 5 tick marks.
- Thinking 2/3 and 4/6 cannot be equal because the numbers are different, though they cover the same length.
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, like 3/4.
- unit fraction
- A fraction with 1 on top, like 1/3, naming one equal part.
- 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.
- number line
- A line with numbers marked in order at equal spaces.
- 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.
- equal parts
- Parts of a whole 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 Reveal Math Grade 3 Unit 6 cover?
Reveal Math Grade 3 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.