Grade 5 · Math · Lesson 12

Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions

A mixed number combines a whole number and a proper fraction, like 2 1/4. An improper fraction has a top number greater than or equal to its bottom number, like 9/4. Both write the same amount in two different ways. Knowing how to switch between them makes adding, subtracting, and comparing fractions much easier.

What this lesson teaches

1Identify a mixed number and an improper fraction by their parts
2Convert a mixed number to an improper fraction by multiplying and adding
3Convert an improper fraction to a mixed number by dividing and using the remainder
4Simplify the fractional part of a mixed number to lowest terms

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