Fractions Uncovered

Overview

This session introduces Year 5 students to foundational fraction concepts aligned with the New Zealand Curriculum refresh (nz_nzc_refresh) focusing on rational numbers. The lesson runs for 45 minutes for 20 students and uses concrete materials and visual models aligning with the curriculum goals of understanding and representing fractions, comparing and ordering them, and basic operations.

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Learning Objectives

Aligned with nz_nzc_refresh Mathematics – Phase 2, Year 5 Rational Numbers:

• Identify, read, write (using symbols and words), and represent fractions with denominators 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12.
• Represent fractions in simplest form using fraction walls and diagrams.
• Understand and explain numerator and denominator roles.
• Compare and order fractions with related denominators.
• Find a unit fraction of a whole number using multiplication or division where the result is a whole number.
• Connect fractions to known benchmarks such as halves, quarters, and percentages (e.g., 25%) .

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Curriculum Alignment

• Strand: Number and Algebra – Rational numbers
• Level: Year 5 (Phase 2)
• Achievement Objectives:
  • Represent and compare fractions using continuous and discrete materials.
  • Interpret fractions on number lines.
  • Use visual models including fraction walls to understand numerator/denominator relationship and equivalence.
  • Find fractions of a whole number where the answer is a whole number (e.g., 1/5 of 40).
• Key Competencies: Thinking, Using language, symbols, and texts, Managing self, Relating to others (collaborative learning).

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Lesson Structure (45 minutes)

Time	Activity & Details	Resources
5 mins	Engagement & Activation - Quick KWL on fractions: What do you know? What do you want to know? - Introduce fraction vocabulary: numerator, denominator	Whiteboard, markers
10 mins	Concrete Exploration: Fraction Walls - Use fraction walls to build and compare fractions. - Fold paper strips to visualize halves, quarters, eighths. - Label parts using words and symbols. - Highlight relationship of numerator to denominator.	Fraction wall charts, paper strips, scissors, glue sticks
10 mins	Guided Practice: Fraction Number Lines - Introduce number lines marked for fractions (e.g., 0 to 1 split into 4, 6, or 8 parts). - Students place given fractions (e.g., 1/4, 3/8) on their number lines. - Discuss ordering fractions based on location.	Number line worksheets, rulers
10 mins	Applied Task: Fraction of a Whole Number - Small groups solve problems such as "Find 1/5 of 40" or "What whole do 3/8 belong to?" - Use multiplication/division facts to find answers. - Represent problems with bar models or diagrams.	Counters or blocks, bar model templates, problem cards
7 mins	Reflection & Assessment - Students write or orally explain what the numerator and denominator tell us. - Quick problem: “Is 3/6 the same as 1/2? Use fraction wall to prove.” - Peer sharing of findings.	Whiteboard, fraction walls
3 mins	Plenary & Next Steps - Recap key points. - Set home task: Find real-life example of fractions at home (e.g., slicing fruit, sharing items). - Encourage students to bring photos/drawings next class.	-

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Teaching Considerations

• Use multiple representations: fraction walls, number lines, discrete materials, bar models.
• Connect fractions to real-world contexts (e.g., halves in sharing, quarters in time).
• Emphasise language development around fractions: numerator, denominator, equivalent, simplest form.
• Support diverse learners with hands-on materials and peer collaboration.
• Challenge students by introducing equivalence (e.g., 3/6 simplified to 1/2) through direct visual comparison.
• Encourage mathematical reasoning by explaining how they found fractions on number lines or fraction walls.
• Allow appropriate wait time for concept consolidation, given Year 5 developmental understanding.

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Assessment and Evidence of Learning

• Observation of student use of fraction walls and number lines, focusing on correct placement and reasoning.
• Student explanations of numerator and denominator.
• Accuracy in finding the fraction of a whole number using multiplication and division.
• Participation in peer discussion about equivalent fractions.
• Completed problems in fraction worksheets and applied tasks.

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This lesson plan is designed to introduce fractions in a meaningful, scaffolded way consistent with the NZC Phase 2 curriculum for Year 5, utilising a variety of visual, symbolic, and practical strategies to deepen understanding and engagement.

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References from the nz_nzc_refresh curriculum documents have ensured this lesson targets the expected learning progressions and teaching approaches recommended for Year 5 students in mathematics .