Work Out Simple Fractions of Whole Numbers

In this activity, we will be finding simple fractions of whole numbers.

Example

Find 3/4 of 36

We can write this as

3/4 x 36 = ?

Answer

We must first work out 1/4 of 36, which is the same as 36 ÷ 4 = 9

1/4 x 36 = 9

Once we know 1/4, we simply multiply this by 3 to find 3/4.

9 x 3 = 27

So, 3/4 of 36 = 27

At school you may have a little rhyme to help you to remember the order - here is one:

Divide the big number by the bottom number and times it by the top number!

So, divide the big number (36) by the bottom number (4) and then times that answer (9) by the top number (3) - we get 27!!

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Want a bit more help with this before you begin? Why not watch this short video?