What is a Ratio?
Ratios help us compare two or more quantities!
A ratio shows how much of one thing there is compared to another. We write ratios with a colon (:) between the numbers, like 3:2. This means "3 to 2" - for every 3 of the first thing, there are 2 of the second thing.
How to Find a Ratio
1️⃣ Identify what you're comparing
2️⃣ Count how many there are of each
3️⃣ Write them with a colon (:) between
4️⃣ Simplify if possible (like fractions!)
Let's Practice with Examples!
Example 1: Fruit Basket
In a basket, there are 8 apples and 4 oranges. What is the ratio of apples to oranges?
Step 1: Count apples (8) and oranges (4)
Step 2: Write as ratio → 8:4
Step 3: Simplify by dividing both by 4 → 2:1
Answer: The ratio is 2:1 (two apples for every one orange)
Example 2: Classroom Pets
In a classroom, there are 6 goldfish, 3 hamsters, and 9 turtles. What is the ratio of hamsters to turtles to goldfish?
Step 1: Count hamsters (3), turtles (9), goldfish (6)
Step 2: Write in order → 3:9:6
Step 3: Simplify by dividing all by 3 → 1:3:2
Answer: The ratio is 1:3:2 (one hamster for every three turtles and two goldfish)
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen ratios: When cooking together, point out recipe ratios (like 2 cups flour to 1 cup sugar) to show real-world applications.
- Sports statistics: Use sports examples (like 3 wins to 2 losses) to make ratios more exciting and relatable.
- Visual aids: Use colored blocks or beads to physically group items and see the ratios in action.