Mathematics — Whole Numbers

Subtopic: Fractions — Circular Cutouts in Quarters

Age: 7 (Kenya). Simple idea: a circle can be cut into 4 equal parts. Each part is called a quarter (English) or robo (Kiswahili).

4/4 = 1 whole
All quarters are together
3/4 (one quarter cut out)
3 of the 4 quarters are present
1/4 = a quarter (robo)
One out of four equal parts
2/4 = 1/2
Two quarters make half a circle

Simple Points to Remember

  • A quarter = 1 of 4 equal parts. Write it as 1/4.
  • Two quarters (2/4) is the same as one half (1/2).
  • Four quarters (4/4) = 1 whole circle.
  • Cutouts show missing parts. If one quarter is cut out, three quarters remain (3/4).

Activity (use paper circles)

Give each pupil a paper circle. Ask them to:

  1. Fold the circle into 4 equal parts (make 2 folds).
  2. Colour 1 quarter and write 1/4.
  3. Cut out 1 quarter. How many quarters remain? (Answer: 3/4)
  4. Put 4 quarter pieces together to make one whole circle.

Questions — Try These

1. If you shade 1 quarter of a circle, what fraction is shaded?

Answer: 1/4

2. If two quarters are shaded, what is the fraction and its name?

Answer: 2/4 which is 1/2 (one half)

3. If one quarter is cut out from a circle, what remains?

Answer: 3/4 (three quarters remain)

4. How many quarters make 2 whole circles?

Answer: 8 quarters (because 4 + 4 = 8)

Teacher tip: Use real round objects (plates, lids) or cut-out paper circles. Let learners fold, colour and join pieces — learning is easier when hands do the work.


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