More Than a Whole: Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions

About This Resource

A complete Grade 5 math pack on mixed numbers and improper fractions. Students identify each type, convert improper fractions to mixed numbers by dividing (17/5 = 3 2/5), convert mixed numbers to improper fractions by multiplying and adding (2 3/4 = 11/4), compare them with 1 and solve real-life problems. Includes slides with worked examples, a lesson plan, worksheet, quiz, homework, flashcards, a rubric and answer keys.

Overview

A proper fraction is less than one whole, but some fractions are more than a whole. An improper fraction has a numerator greater than or equal to its denominator (7/4), and a mixed number shows the same amount as a whole number and a fraction (1 3/4). Students use fraction strips and pictures to see why 7/4 and 1 3/4 are equal. To change an improper fraction into a mixed number, they divide the numerator by the denominator: the quotient is the whole number and the remainder is the new numerator. To change a mixed number into an improper fraction, they multiply the whole number by the denominator and add the numerator. Students practice both conversions and use them in recipes, pizzas and measurements.

Resource Details

Subject: Math
Topic: Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions
Category: Fractions & Decimals
File Type: PDF
File Size: 292.7 KB
Published: 12 Nov 2026
Downloads: 0

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Grade 5 math (ages 10–11) 55 minutes Fractions division with remainders multiplication reasoning with models

Learning Objectives

Identify proper fractions, improper fractions and mixed numbers.
Convert improper fractions to mixed numbers and mixed numbers to improper fractions.
Use mixed numbers and improper fractions to solve real-life problems.

How to Use This Resource

Start with the slides: show two pizzas cut into quarters with seven slices left. Ask: "How much pizza is left?"
Teach both conversions with the worked examples, then do worksheet activities 1 and 2 together.
Students complete activities 3 to 6, then use the quiz and send the homework page home.

Classroom Activity Ideas

Fraction strips: students build 7/4 with quarter strips, then group four quarters into one whole to show 1 3/4.
Pizza problems: groups use paper circles cut into equal slices to show improper fractions and mixed numbers.
Match-up cards: students find partners whose card shows the same amount (9/4 and 2 1/4).

Differentiation

Support: use fraction strips and denominators of 2, 3 and 4 only. Challenge: students compare mixed numbers and improper fractions (Which is greater: 11/4 or 2 1/2?) and place them on a number line.

Assessment

Use the worksheet and quiz to check both conversions. Use the rubric to assess explanations and the homework problems.

Teacher Tips

Encourage students to check each conversion with a picture or by converting back. A common error is adding instead of multiplying (for 2 3/4, writing 5/4). Ask: How many quarters are in one whole? In two wholes?

What's Included

10-page printable PDF lesson pack: teacher lesson plan with timings, materials and differentiation
Key vocabulary list (7 words with meanings and examples)
Student worksheet (6 activities)
Quiz / assessment (3 parts)
Homework practice page
Printable flashcards: 7 A5 picture cards (separate PDF)
Assessment rubric (4 levels)
Lesson slides (editable PowerPoint)
Editable Word version of all student pages
Complete answer key (also as a separate PDF)