REVIEW: Year 1: A. Number systems, integers, fractions, decimals: 5. Converting Between Number Forms: A Review

Lesson: Converting Between Number Forms: A Review

Introduction

Welcome to the world of conversion between different number forms – fractions, decimals, and percentages. These forms are just different ways of expressing the same value. Think of them as different languages in mathematics, each with its unique way of communicating numbers. In this lesson, we’ll review how to convert between these forms. To enhance your practice, we’ll also introduce some handy apps that make these conversions a breeze.

Objectives

  • Understand how to convert numbers between fractions, decimals, and percentages.
  • Practice these conversions to gain fluency and accuracy.
  • Learn to use apps that facilitate quick and easy conversion between these forms.

Conversion Techniques

  1. Fractions to Decimals:
    • Divide the numerator (top number) by the denominator (bottom number) to get a decimal.
    • Example: Convert 14 to a decimal by calculating 1÷4=0.25.
  2. Decimals to Fractions:
    • Write the decimal over 1 and then multiply both numerator and denominator by 10 until you get rid of the decimal.
    • Simplify the fraction if necessary.
    • Example: Convert 0.75 to a fraction by writing it as 0.751 and then 75100, which simplifies to 34.
  3. Fractions to Percentages:
    • Convert the fraction to a decimal and then multiply by 100 to get the percentage.
    • Example: Convert 14 to a percentage by first converting it to 0.25 and then 0.25×100=25%.
  4. Percentages to Fractions:
    • Write the percentage as a fraction over 100 and simplify.
    • Example: Convert 20% to a fraction by writing it as 20100, which simplifies to 15.
  5. Decimals to Percentages:
    • Multiply the decimal by 100 and add the percentage symbol.
    • Example: Convert 0.2 to a percentage by calculating 0.2×100=20%.
  6. Percentages to Decimals:
    • Divide the percentage by 100 to get a decimal.
    • Example: Convert 50% to a decimal by calculating 50÷100=0.5.

Apps for Conversion Practice

To practice these conversions, try using apps like ‘Fraction Decimal Percent Converter’ or online tools like the ‘Convert between Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages’ feature on MathIsFun. These tools provide a quick and interactive way to convert between number forms.

How to Use
  1. Choose the Conversion Type: Select what you are converting from and to (e.g., fraction to decimal).
  2. Input the Number: Enter the number you wish to convert.
  3. Instant Conversion: The app or tool will instantly show you the converted number in the desired form.
  4. Practice with Examples: Use the app to practice a variety of conversion problems.

Exercise

  • Conversion Challenges: Create a list of numbers in one form (fractions, decimals, or percentages) and use the app to convert them into the other two forms.
  • Real-Life Application: Think of real-life situations where conversions are used (like in recipes or shopping discounts) and create problems based on these scenarios. Use the app to solve and confirm your answers.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of converting between fractions, decimals, and percentages is a key skill in mathematics that has numerous practical applications. By understanding these conversion techniques and practicing with digital tools, you’ll be able to effortlessly switch between these number forms, enhancing your flexibility and proficiency in handling various mathematical tasks. Keep practicing, and soon these conversions will become second nature!