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KK.1 Identify equal parts

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What are equal parts?

Equal parts are pieces of a whole that are the same size. A whole can be divided into two or more equal parts.

Examples:
  • A circle cut into 2 equal parts makes halves.
  • A rectangle cut into 4 equal parts makes fourths.
  • A square cut into 3 equal parts makes thirds.
Note

Equal means “the same.” If one part is larger or smaller than the others, the parts are not equal.

How to identify equal parts

To decide if parts are equal, check that each part is the same size, even if they are not the same shape.

Steps:
  • Look at the whole shape (circle, square, rectangle, etc.).
  • See if it is divided into parts.
  • Compare the sizes of the parts. If all parts match in size, they are equal.
Note

Parts can look different in shape but still be equal in size. Focus on the size, not the shape.

Fractions and equal parts

A fraction names equal parts of a whole. The number on the bottom (denominator) tells how many equal parts the whole is divided into. The number on the top (numerator) tells how many parts are being counted.

Examples:
  • 1 out of 2 equal parts → 1/2 (one-half)
  • 2 out of 4 equal parts → 2/4 (two-fourths)
  • 1 out of 3 equal parts → 1/3 (one-third)
Note

Fractions only work when the whole is divided into equal parts. Unequal parts do not make a correct fraction.

Using equal parts in real life

Equal parts are used every day when sharing or dividing objects fairly.

Examples:
  • Cutting a pizza into 8 equal slices so everyone gets the same amount.
  • Folding a paper in half to make 2 equal parts.
  • Sharing a candy bar equally among 3 friends.
Note

If everyone is to get a fair share, the whole must be divided into equal parts.

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