California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) Math Practice Exam

Which statement accurately describes a fraction?

1. A ratio of three numbers

2. A number written in decimal form

3. A ratio of two values written as a/b

4. An equation representing a whole number

The correct answer is: A ratio of two values written as a/b

A fraction is defined as a ratio that compares two values, typically expressed in the form a/b, where 'a' is the numerator, representing parts of a whole, and 'b' is the denominator, indicating the total number of equal parts that the whole is divided into. This format clearly illustrates the relationship between the two quantities, making it easy to understand the proportion being represented. In contrast, a ratio of three numbers does not fit the definition of a fraction, as fractions specifically pertain to two values. Additionally, while a number can be written in decimal form, this does not capture the essence of a fraction itself, as decimals and fractions are different representations of numbers. Finally, an equation representing a whole number departs from the concept of fractions entirely, focusing instead on a singular whole without indicating a relationship between parts of a whole.