Convert Fractions to Decimals Using Division

In this activity, we will be learning about writing fractions as decimals. 

The fraction ½ can also be written as the decimal 0.5

Any fraction can be written as a decimal.

This activity shows how to convert a simple fraction to its decimal equivalent.

The fraction ½ can be read to mean 1 whole divided into 2 parts, i.e. 1 ÷ 2

We can divide 1 by 2, in a division calculation, but first we change 1 to 1.0

This is to give more space to carry out the division, so that we can put remainders in the division.

This shows that ½ = 1 ÷ 2 = 0.5

Let's try an example question. 

Example

Change the fraction 3/8 to a decimal.

Answer

3/8 is the same as 3 ÷ 8

Here, we change 3 to 3.000 to allow space for remainders when we divide.

The answer is 0.375

Now it's your turn to have a go at some questions like this. 

Good luck!