📚 Topic Summary
Converting decimals to fractions involves understanding place value. A decimal like 0.5 represents five-tenths, which can be written as the fraction $\frac{5}{10}$. To simplify a fraction, you find the greatest common factor (GCF) of the numerator and denominator and divide both by it. For example, $\frac{5}{10}$ simplifies to $\frac{1}{2}$ because the GCF of 5 and 10 is 5.
Simplifying fractions means reducing them to their lowest terms. This is crucial for clear communication and accurate calculations in mathematics. Remember, the simplified fraction represents the same value as the original decimal or fraction but in a more concise form.
🔤 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Decimal |
A. The number above the fraction bar. |
| 2. Fraction |
B. A number expressed in base 10 notation. |
| 3. Numerator |
C. The process of reducing a fraction to its lowest terms. |
| 4. Denominator |
D. A number that represents part of a whole. |
| 5. Simplification |
E. The number below the fraction bar. |
(Match the terms with the correct definitions.)
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the missing words in the following paragraph:
To convert a decimal to a fraction, first write the decimal as a fraction with a _______ of a power of ten. Then, _______ the fraction to its _______ terms by dividing both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common _______. For example, 0.25 is written as $\frac{25}{100}$, which simplifies to _______.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain why it's important to simplify fractions after converting them from decimals. Provide a real-world example where simplifying fractions is beneficial.