An understanding of fractions is foundational to proportional reasoning and algebra. For example, a direct-variation relationship may include a constant of proportionality that is rational, and linear equations may have solutions that are fractions. Beyond that, a grasp of the concept of proportionality and of rational numbers is necessary for understanding other topics, such as rational functions, algebraic fractions, scaling, and similarity. Given the need to address students' weak understanding of fractions and the lack of time to cover all the prescribed content in a first-year algebra course, this article presents a method for helping students develop a deeper understanding of fractions "while" they are learning algebra. In particular, the concept of slope can be used to represent fractions as well as operations on fractions. (Contains 5 figures.)