Operations with Rational Numbers and their Meanings based on the Part-all Conception

Abstract

We present a reflection regarding operations with fractional numbers focusing on the part-all conception through some activities that can contribute to teaching practices at the elementary school level. A brief characterization of the all-part conception is provided along with descriptions of activities involving the four basic operations based on the use of flat figures, although other conceptions may emerge during the solution. We limit our considerations to this conception because it is the most frequent, in textbooks as well as teacher practice, although it is not used to justify operational rules of fractional numbers. Key-words: Fractions. Fractional Numbers. Operations.