M3.3.7 For the adult
Fractions and decimals
A fraction is a division. So what decimal is 3/8?
What this chapter teaches
A fraction is a division, so the top number divided by the bottom number gives the decimal. A decimal is changed into a fraction by reading its place value, then simplifying. When the same remainder comes back in the division, the decimal repeats for ever.
Three questions to ask
There is no one right wording. Listen for the idea.
- How do you change 3/8 into a decimal?
- Why is 0.35 the same as 7/20?
- What happens when you divide 1 by 3, and why does it never stop?
After the chapter, the learner can
- Change 3/8 into a decimal by dividing
- Change 0.35 into a fraction in simplest form
- Spot a decimal that repeats, like 1/3 = 0.333...
What they copy into their notebook
A fraction is a division. 3/8 means 3 ÷ 8 = 0.375. Read a decimal by its place value, then simplify. If the same remainder comes back, the decimal repeats.