Representation of Rational Numbers on a Number Line

Representation of Rational Numbers on a Number Line

Reminders

• Positive rational numbers are always represented on the right side of the zero on the number line.

• Negative rational numbers are always represented on the left side of zero on the number line. 

Proper Fractions

• Proper fractions are fractions in which the numerator is less than the denominator.

• Proper fractions are less than one and greater than zero.

• Proper fractions always exist between zero and one on number line.

Example #1

Since the given rational number is greater than zero, it will be represented on the right side of zero on the number line.

Since it is less than one, it will exist between 0 and 1.

The denominator (bottom number) tells us how many equal parts we need to divide the number line between 0 and 1.

Example #2

Since the given rational number is greater than zero, it will be represented on the right side of zero on the number line.

Since it is less than one, it will exist between 0 and 1.

The denominator (bottom number) tells us how many equal parts we need to divide the number line between 0 and 1.

Example #3

This rational number is less than 0 but greater than -1. Therefore, it will exist between -1 and 0.

The denominator (bottom number) tells us how many equal parts we need to divide the number line between -1 and 0.

Example #4

Example #5

Multiple Choice

What number best completes the number line?

• 1/2
• 2
• 1.5
• 0

Multiple Choice

Which number line shows partitioning into fifths?

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4

Multiple Choice

The arrow best represents the fraction...

• 2/3
• 9/12
• 1/4
• 9/4

Multiple Choice

What number best completes the number line?

• 1/2
• 2
• 1.5
• 0

Multiple Choice

Which number line shows -1/4 and its opposite?

Multiple Choice

Point A on the number line best shows what fraction?

• 6/3
• 2/2
• 0/3
• 1/2

Multiple Choice

Where is  $-\ \frac{57}{10}$  on a number line?

• between −6 and −5

• between −7 and -6

• between 5 and 6

• between 6 and 7 

Multiple Choice

Which letter represents the fraction 14/4ths on the number line?

• A
• B
• C
• D

Multiple Choice

-36 is greater than -35.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

How many lines do you draw to partition a number line to show thirds?

• 4
• 5
• 6
• 2

Multiple Choice

How many lines do you draw to partition a number line to show sixths?

• 4

• 5

• 6

• 2