Understanding the difference between proper and improper fractions is an important step in learning about fractions!

Proper Fractions

A proper fraction is when the top number (called the numerator) is smaller than the bottom number (called the denominator).

This means the fraction shows a part of a whole.

For example:

• $\frac{3}{4}$ means you have 3 parts out of a total of 4 parts.

Improper Fractions

An improper fraction is when the top number is bigger than or equal to the bottom number.

This means you have more parts than what makes a whole.

For example:

• $\frac{5}{3}$ means you have 5 parts out of 3 parts, which is more than one whole piece.

Quick Comparison

• Proper Fraction: $\frac{2}{5}$ (less than 1 whole)
• Improper Fraction: $\frac{6}{4}$ (more than 1 whole)

Visual Representation

To make this easier, you can draw circles or squares.

Shade in the part for proper fractions and compare it to the shading for improper fractions.

This picture can really help young learners understand the difference!