L1 · Equal parts of one whole: unit fractions (denominators of 12 or less)

Learning goal

“I can split one whole into equal parts and name one part a unit fraction - and I know the parts must be EQUAL, and that more parts means smaller parts.”

Whole — the one full thing a fraction talks about: one strip, one pizza, one group.

Equal parts — parts that are exactly the same size. Fractions only count equal parts.

Unit fraction — one equal part of a whole: 1/4 is one part when a whole is split into 4 equal parts.

Denominator — the total number of equal parts in the whole. In 1/4, the denominator 4 says the whole was split into 4 equal parts.

Worked example

One paper strip is ONE whole. Fold it so it makes 4 parts. Open it up: the 4 parts are exactly the same size - they are EQUAL parts. One of these parts is called 1/4 (one fourth). Say what the 4 means: the whole was split into 4 equal parts. The 1 means: we are talking about ONE of the parts. Every fraction in this unit starts the same way: one whole, split into equal parts.

Check yourself — explain it

In 1/4, what does the 4 tell you?

Paired problem — example still visible

A whole is split into 6 equal parts. What is one part called? -> 1/6

Faded completion — last step is yours

"A whole split into 8 equal parts: one part is ___." -> 1/8

Ready to practise?

10 scored questions with a 3-rung hint ladder. Mastery needs 8/10 plus both gate questions.

Start practice →Take the unit quiz