Writing Fractions as Decimal Numbers
Writing fractions as decimal numbers is a Grade 6 math skill in Saxon Math, Course 1 that converts fractions to decimal form by dividing the numerator by the denominator. For example, 3/8 = 3 ÷ 8 = 0.375. Some fractions produce terminating decimals (3/4 = 0.75), while others produce repeating decimals (1/3 = 0.333..., written as 0.3̄). Key benchmarks to memorize: 1/2=0.5, 1/4=0.25, 3/4=0.75, 1/5=0.2, 1/8=0.125. This skill enables fraction-decimal comparison, measurement conversions, and real-world applications where decimals are required.
Key Concepts
Definition To convert a fraction to a decimal number, we divide the numerator by the denominator. What’s next Next, you will apply this process through worked examples. You'll convert simple fractions, mixed numbers, and even probability ratios into their decimal equivalents.
Common Questions
How do you convert a fraction to a decimal?
Divide the numerator by the denominator. For 3/8: 3 ÷ 8 = 0.375. Add zeros after the decimal point in the dividend and continue dividing until the remainder is zero or repeats.
What is a terminating decimal?
A decimal that ends after a finite number of digits. 3/4 = 0.75 terminates after two places. Fractions whose denominators have only factors of 2 and 5 always terminate.
What is a repeating decimal?
A decimal where one or more digits repeat infinitely. 1/3 = 0.3333... = 0.3̄. A bar over the repeating digits shows the pattern that continues forever.
What fraction-decimal equivalents should Grade 6 students memorize?
1/2=0.5, 1/4=0.25, 3/4=0.75, 1/5=0.2, 2/5=0.4, 3/5=0.6, 4/5=0.8, 1/8=0.125, 3/8=0.375, 5/8=0.625, 7/8=0.875, 1/3≈0.333, 2/3≈0.667.
How can you tell before dividing whether a fraction will terminate or repeat?
If the denominator (in simplified form) has only 2s and 5s as prime factors, the decimal terminates. If it contains any other prime factor (3, 7, 11, etc.), the decimal repeats.