Understanding Fractions on a Number Line

Understand a fraction as a number on the number line; represent fractions on a number line diagram.

Share This Post

Standard: 3.NF.A2 – Understand a fraction as a number on the number line; represent fractions on a number line diagram.

Grade level: Grade 3

Subject: Mathematics

Domain: Numbers & Operations – Fractions

Teacher Overview

This standard focuses on understanding fractions as numbers and representing them on a number line. This is crucial as it lays the foundation for more advanced fraction concepts and operations in later grades. Students should have a solid understanding of whole numbers, basic addition and subtraction, and the concept of equal parts before approaching this standard.

After mastering this standard, students will be able to compare and order fractions, understand equivalent fractions, and perform operations with fractions.

Misconception Icon

Common Misconception 1

A common misconception is that the size of the fraction changes with different denominators. This is incorrect because the denominator simply indicates the number of equal parts the whole is divided into, not the size of the parts.

Intervention Icon

Intervention 1

To address this misconception, use visual aids like fraction strips to show that fractions represent parts of a whole, regardless of the denominator.

Misconception Icon

Common Misconception 2

Another misconception is that fractions cannot be represented on a number line. This is incorrect because fractions are numbers and can be placed on a number line just like whole numbers.

Intervention Icon

Intervention 2

To remediate this, create number lines with marked fractions to illustrate that fractions are numbers that can be placed on a number line.

Prerequisite Knowledge

Students should understand whole numbers, basic addition and subtraction, and the concept of equal parts.

Subsequent Knowledge

Students will learn to compare and order fractions, understand equivalent fractions, and perform operations with fractions.

Instructional Activities

  • Using fraction strips to visualize different fractions
  • Drawing number lines and marking fractions
  • Interactive games that involve placing fractions on a number line
  • Group activities where students divide objects into fractions

Be proactive. Get updates

Join our mailing list to be the first to receive updates, examples, and event alerts!

More To Explore

Proactive Instruction

Textual Evidence Analysis

Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

Want to bring the Proactive Instruction Model to your school or district?

Contact us today for customized professional development!

Learn how we helped 100 top brands gain success.

Let's have a chat