Fractions, Decimals and Percentages
Year 6 convert between fractions, decimals and percentages and solve real problems.
# Fractions, Decimals and Percentages
In Year 6 we learn that fractions, decimals and percentages are three ways to describe parts of a whole.
Equivalent Values
A half can be written as 1/2, 0.5 or 50%. A quarter can be 1/4, 0.25 or 25%. Knowing these common equivalents by heart saves time and helps you compare values quickly.
Converting Between Them
To turn a percentage into a decimal, divide by 100. So 40% becomes 0.40. To turn a decimal into a percentage, multiply by 100. To turn a fraction into a decimal, divide the top by the bottom.
Solving Problems
Percentages are useful in real life. A 20% discount on a 50 pound item saves 10 pounds. Working out whether a fraction or a percentage is the easier form is a useful skill.
Try It
Convert 3/4, 0.6 and 15% into the other two forms. Checking your answers by making sure all three describe the same amount will catch most mistakes.
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