Fractions represent a whole number. It can be a single object or group objects. In a fraction
the number of equal parts is described as numerator and the type of variety is referred to as denominator. It is important to learn the concept of fraction in early stages as it builds the foundation for future studies. Mathematics becomes sometimes difficult for many students in understanding the concept. This is a very important chapter in maths for 6th standard students of CBSE Board. Solutions to all the questions in this chapter can be easily found in any good solution key that provides NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Maths. Fractions are described as one halfs, eight fifths, and three quarters when spoken in english. A brief information on various types of fractions are mentioned below:
Fraction on the number line
Fractions can be shown in number lines. Let’s discuss with an example, draw a straight line. Mark 1/2 on it. We know that 1/2 is greater than 0 and less than 1. It will be placed in between divided into two equal parts. The same method can be followed for 1/3 and 2/3 . Here the line will be divided into three and four equal parts respectively.
Proper fractions
The fraction is called proper if the numerator is less than denominator and is positive. For example, 1/2 , 3/4 , 4/9 etc. In proper fractions, the denominator shows the number of parts into which the whole is divided and numerator where the number of parts have been considered.
Improper and mixed fractions
The fractions where the numerator is bigger than the denominator is called improper fractions. For example, 3/2, 12/7, 18/5 etc. whereas the mixed fractions are those that have a combination of whole and a part. For example, 17/4 i.e when 17 is divided by 4 is equal to 4 1∕4. Let’s discuss with an example,
Express the mixed fractions as improper fractions :
2 3/4 = 2+3/4 = (2x 4)/4 +3/4 = 11/4
Therefore we can express mixed fractions as improper fractions
Whole Denominator + Numerator
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Denominator
Equivalent fractions
The fractions are taken from the total number of parts. It is equally divided part of the whole. For example, 1/2 , 2/4 and 3/6.
Adding and subtracting fractions
The fractions can be added or subtracted. Before adding or subtracting we must find the same denominators. Let’s discuss with an example,
Since 1/5 and 1/2 are having different denominator, we must find the equivalent fraction with same denominator
1/2 = 1×5/2×5=5/10
1/5 = 1×2/5×2=2/10
These are 5/10 and 2/10 respectively,
Therefore 1/2 – 1/5 = 5/10-2/10= 5-2/10= 3/10
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