Mixed numbers on the number line
A mixed number on the number line is located between two consecutive whole numbers, with its fractional part showing how far past the lower whole number it sits. In Grade 6 Saxon Math Course 1 (Chapter 2: Problem Solving with Number and Operations), students divide the interval between two whole numbers into equal parts matching the denominator, then count the numerator's worth of parts. For 2 and 3/4: divide the interval 2-3 into fourths and count 3 tick marks right of 2. A mixed number is defined as a whole number plus a fraction, so 1 and 1/2 lies halfway between 1 and 2.
Key Concepts
Property A mixed number is a whole number plus a fraction.
Examples Point B is between 3 and 4. The space is cut into 7 parts. B is on the 2nd mark. So, it's $3\frac{2}{7}$. What number is halfway between 8 and 9? That’s simply $8\frac{1}{2}$. A point at the fourth mark between 1 and 2 in a section divided into five segments is $ 1\frac{4}{5}$.
Explanation Ever wonder what's between 2 and 3 on a ruler? It's not just blank space! A number line is packed with fractions and mixed numbers. To find a point's value, first spot the whole number it's past, then count the total segments in that section and how many segments you've moved.
Common Questions
How do you plot a mixed number like 1 and 2/3 on a number line?
Find 1 and 2 on the number line. Divide that interval into 3 equal parts (thirds). Count 2 tick marks right of 1 to reach 1 and 2/3.
What do the denominator and numerator of a mixed number tell you about its position?
The denominator tells how many equal parts to divide each unit into. The numerator tells how many of those parts to count past the whole-number mark.
Between which two whole numbers does 4 and 5/6 fall?
4 and 5/6 falls between 4 and 5. It is 5/6 of the way from 4 to 5.
How do you order mixed numbers using a number line?
Plot each mixed number. Numbers farther to the right are greater. For example, 3 and 1/4 is less than 3 and 3/4.
What decimal is equivalent to 2 and 3/4 on the number line?
2 and 3/4 = 2.75. Both names describe the same point.