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Overview
8th Grade Math
2. 8.NS.A.2
2.2 Determine square roots of rational numbers
Square Roots of Rational Numbers
The square root of a fraction equals the square root of the numerator over the square root of the denominator.
What You'll Learn
The square root of a fraction a/b equals the square root of a over the square root of b.
Example: the square root of 4/9 equals 2/3, since the square root of 4 is 2 and of 9 is 3.
The result is rational only when both the numerator and denominator are perfect squares.
If either is not a perfect square, the square root is irrational.
Simplifying the fraction first can reveal a perfect-square numerator and denominator.
What You'll Practice
1
Determining if fractions and decimals are perfect squares
2
Finding square roots of large whole numbers without calculators
3
Converting decimals to fractions to evaluate square roots
4
Rounding square root values to nearest tenth or hundredth
Why This Matters
Understanding square roots of rational numbers is essential for algebra, geometry, and real-world calculations involving area, distance, and measurement. This skill builds your foundation for working with quadratic equations, the Pythagorean theorem, and scientific applications.
Before You Start — Make Sure You Can:
This Unit Includes
15 Video lessons
Practice exercises
Learning resources
Skills
Square Roots
Perfect Squares
Rational Numbers
Decimal Conversion
Fractions
Rounding
Calculator Skills
OH Curriculum Aligned