How to Make a Line Plot with Fractions
A line plot shows how many times each measurement happens.
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How to do it
- Draw a number line with a mark for every fraction in the data.
- Put an X above the mark for each measurement.
- Count the Xs and add or subtract to answer questions.
Teaching tip
Measure eight real pencils together and make your own line plot. This sheet is aligned with Common Core 4.MD.B.4.
About this chart
Eight pencil lengths in fourths of an inch plotted on a line plot, then read to find a count, a difference and a total.
What kids practice
A line plot shows data on a number line, with an X for each measurement. In fourth grade the measurements are in fractions of a unit, like 5 1/4 inches or 3/8 liter. Children make line plots from a list of data, then use them to answer questions by adding and subtracting fractions, like finding the difference between the longest and shortest measurement.
Watch for
- Skipping marks on the number line, like jumping from 1/4 to 3/4.
- Plotting a value at the wrong mark, especially with eighths.
- Counting marks instead of Xs.
- Forgetting to change answers like 6/4 to a mixed number.
It's free to print, as many copies as you need. See the full line plots with fractions guide for 4th grade.
More sheets in this set
2. Make a Line PlotLists of measurements in halves, fourths and eighths to plot. Fewer has one plot, and Standard and More have two. More uses eighths.
3. Read a Line PlotA line plot with questions about counts, the most common measurement, differences, totals and more than. More has six questions.
4. Line Plot Word ProblemsA line plot with story problems that add and subtract fractions, like totals and differences.