Writing fractions

The line in a fraction should not be sloped.

Often when learning maths pupils have difficulty with fractions. This starts with the way they write the fraction on the page. Copying their parents or other adults, they will draw the line between the numerator and the denominator as a slanting slash

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rather than as a flat, horizontal line and when asked to write it with the horizontal line, they are reluctant to do so. The slash looks so much more stylish, suave and sophisticated. They cannot immediately see why they should use the horizontal version.

But it is very important. It is absolutely vital to be able to see at a glance which number is at the top and which is at the bottom.