Pre-Algebra

Pre-Algebra introduces foundational concepts in mathematics, including integers, fractions, and basic equations, essential for higher-level math courses.

Basic Concepts

Fractions and Decimals

What Are Fractions?

Fractions show parts of a whole. The top number (numerator) tells how many parts you have, and the bottom number (denominator) tells how many parts make a whole.

What Are Decimals?

Decimals are another way to show parts of a whole, especially when dividing by 10, 100, etc. For example, \( 0.5 \) means "five tenths," which is the same as \( \frac{5}{10} \).

Comparing Fractions and Decimals

Fractions and decimals are just two ways to describe the same thing. You can switch between them by dividing.

  • \( \frac{1}{2} = 0.5 \)
  • \( \frac{3}{4} = 0.75 \)

Why Are They Useful?

Fractions and decimals help us measure things that aren't whole, like pieces of pizza or parts of a dollar.

Fun Fact

Pie charts use fractions and decimals to show how much of each slice you get!

Examples

  • A pizza is cut into 8 slices. If you eat 3, you ate \( \frac{3}{8} \) of the pizza.

  • You have $2.75, which is two whole dollars and seventy-five cents.

In a Nutshell

Fractions and decimals are ways to represent parts of a whole and are used in measuring, money, and much more.