Focus on math practices Generalize How is representing the locations of negative fractions and decimals like representing the locations of positive fractions and decimals? How is it different?

Both negative and positive fractions or decimals use the same number line and the same idea of equal spacing. In other words, whether the number is expressed as a fraction or a decimal, you find its location by comparing its size (or magnitude) to known reference points like 0, 1, ½, etc. Here’s a closer look at the similarities and differences: • Similarity in Representation:  – For both types of numbers, you divide the segment between two whole numbers into equal parts. For example, to represent 0.25 or ¼, you split the segment between 0 and 1 into four equal sections.  – The process of determining the fraction of the distance from 0 to 1 (or between any two adjacent whole numbers) applies equally to fractions and decimals. Both numbers tell you “how far along” between two markers the number lies.  – Both rely on the concept of magnitude. The absolute value tells you the distance from 0, regardless of whether the number is negative or positive. • Difference in Representation:  – The main difference lies in the direction from 0. Positive fractions and decimals are placed to the right of 0 because they denote values greater than 0. Negative fractions and decimals, such as -0.25 or -¼, are placed to the left of 0 because they denote values less than 0.  – Even though the amount of spacing is the same, the sign changes the direction. For every positive number (say, ¾), there is a corresponding negative number (-¾) on the opposite side of 0, but at an equal distance from 0.  – In practice, this means that while the methodology (dividing a segment into equal parts) is identical, you must be mindful of placing negative values on the left side, which is the “mirror image” of the positive values on the right side. In summary, the idea behind representing locations of both negative and positive fractions and decimals is the same: you’re marking distances on a number line relative to known whole numbers. The difference is purely directional—positive values go to the right of 0, and negative values go to the left.