Skill: Interpret the numerator

A fraction shows equal-sized parts of one whole.

• The denominator is the bottom number. It tells how many equal parts make the whole.
• The numerator is the top number. It tells how many of those parts are represented.

Example: Interpret $\frac{3}{4}$

1. Look at the denominator, $4$. The whole is divided into 4 equal parts. Each part is called a fourth.
2. Look at the numerator, $3$. The fraction represents 3 of those fourths.
3. So, $\frac{3}{4}$ means three fourths.

On a number line from $0$ to $1$, divide the whole into four equal sections. The numerator $3$ tells you to count to the third partition point, locating $\frac{3}{4}$.

Therefore, in $\frac{3}{4}$, the numerator tells how many equal parts are represented: 3.