Zearn Math Grade 3, Mission 5: Fractions as Numbers
In this unit, your child learns that fractions are numbers. Children split shapes into parts with equal area, name each part as a unit fraction like 1/4, place fractions on a number line, and compare fractions and find equal ones. It grows from the area work of the last unit, and the next unit turns to data, graphs, and line plots.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Mission 5?
- Writing fractions such as 3/5, where the denominator, the bottom number, counts the equal parts and the numerator, the top number, counts the parts taken. Learn more: What a fraction like 3/4 means
- Placing fractions on a number line, including fractions greater than 1 like 5/4, by counting equal jumps from 0. Learn more: Fractions on a number line
- Comparing fractions and finding equivalent fractions, ones that name the same amount, such as 3/6 and 1/2, using models and number lines. 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
- Splitting shapes into parts with equal area and naming each part as a unit fraction, so each of 6 equal parts is 1/6. Learn more: Splitting shapes into equal parts
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
- Fold a square napkin into 4 equal parts in two different ways, and talk about why each part is still 1/4 even though the shapes differ.
- Share a pre-cut pan of brownies or a pizza and ask whether 1/3 or 1/6 of it is the bigger share, and why.
- Mark 0, 1, and 2 on a strip of tape on the floor, split each whole into fourths, and have your child step to 3/4 and then to 5/4.
Where kids can get stuck
- Splitting a shape into four parts of different sizes and still calling each part 1/4.
- Writing the number of parts, such as 4, instead of the fraction for one part, 1/4.
- Counting the 0 mark as the first jump, so 3/4 gets placed one step short, at 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, 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.
- partition
- To split a shape or whole into equal parts.
- equal area
- Covering the same amount of space, even if the parts look different.
- 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.
- whole
- The entire shape, object, or group before it is split into parts.
Want to help your child master fractions as numbers?
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.
Join the club
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 Zearn Math Grade 3 Mission 5 cover?
Zearn Math Grade 3 Mission 5 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.