Fractions

A rational number is the result of the division of two integers. The formal mathematical definition is “A rational number is a number that can be in the form  where p and q are integers and q is not equal to zero.” Examples 3 divided by 2, 1 divided by 12. The important concept is where this set of numbers lies in relation to other number sets.

Having noted the importance of the equivalence of fractions it would be remiss not to ground the teaching of the four-arithmetic operations on this important concept.

Before we start thinking about misconceptions* in the teaching and learning of fractions let us think about the difference between an error and a misconception

an error is an inaccuracy, but a misconception is the result of misunderstanding