Unit Fractions on a Number Line

Unit fractions on a number line

A unit fraction is a fraction with numerator 1, such as (\frac12), (\frac13), or (\frac15). On a number line, these fractions show equal parts of the whole interval from 0 to 1.

1) Find the number of equal parts

Look at the denominator. It tells you how many equal sections the interval from 0 to 1 is divided into.

• Denominator 2: split the line into 2 equal parts
• Denominator 3: split it into 3 equal parts
• Denominator 5: split it into 5 equal parts

2) Count one part from 0

Because it is a unit fraction, you only move one equal step from 0. The first mark after 0 is the unit fraction.

• First mark after 0 on a line split into 4 equal parts is (\frac14)
• First mark after 0 on a line split into 6 equal parts is (\frac16)

3) Check your answer

Make sure the point you chose:

• is the first division after 0
• matches the number of equal parts shown by the denominator
• is less than 1

If you are unsure, count the spaces carefully and compare the labeled endpoints. A correct answer should always match the first equal interval from 0.