Grade 4 Math Book · Fractions, Decimals & Percents
Fractions in Disguise
by Edward Einhorn
Fraction collector George Cornelius Factor is on the case when the villainous Dr. Brok steals a rare fraction and disguises it. To find it, George invents a way to reveal a fraction's simplest form.
Why it's useful
A mystery that makes equivalent fractions and simplifying feel like detective work.
- Same value, different look. 2/4, 3/6 and 1/2 are all the same fraction in disguise.
- Common factors. Simplifying means dividing top and bottom by the same number.
- Reasoning. Kids use clues to find the fraction.
Try it in class or at home
- Fraction disguises. Write a fraction in three "disguises" and swap with a partner.
- Unmask it. Simplify fractions by finding common factors.
- Fraction bars. Use strips to show that equivalent fractions are the same size.