A mixed number has a whole number and a fraction, like 2 3/4. An improper fraction has a numerator bigger than its denominator, like 11/4. They can show the same amount.
To change 2 3/4 into quarters: each whole is 4/4, so 2 wholes are 8/4. Add the 3/4 to get 11/4. To go back, divide: 11 ÷ 4 = 2 remainder 3, so 11/4 = 2 3/4.
A number line shows this well: 11/4 sits between 2 and 3, three quarters of the way along.
Worked example
3 2/5 = ☐/5. What is the missing numerator?
- 3 wholes are 15/5.
- 15 + 2 = 17.
Answer:17
Key words
- mixed number
- a whole number and a fraction
- improper fraction
- a fraction greater than one whole
- whole
- one complete thing
Practise this
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: 4.NF.B.3b