Fractions Uncovered

Lesson Overview

This lesson will engage Year 5 students in identifying and understanding equivalent fractions. Through interactive activities, discussions, and reflections, students will be able to recognise equivalent fractions and explain the reasoning behind their equivalence by the end of the lesson.

Duration

50 minutes

Class Size

10 Students

Curriculum Reference

This lesson aligns with the National Curriculum for England, specifically:

• Number - Fractions (Y5) - "Recognise and use fractions as numbers: unit fractions and non-unit fractions with small denominators."

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

1. Recognise equivalent fractions.
2. Explain why certain fractions are equivalent.
3. Represent equivalent fractions visually and numerically.

Resources Needed

• Whiteboard and markers
• Fraction circles (one set for each student)
• A4 paper
• Scissors
• Rulers
• Colouring pencils
• Equivalent fraction worksheets
• "Fraction Match" cards (with pairs of equivalent fractions)

Lesson Structure

Introduction (10 minutes)

• Starter Activity:

  • Display a few simple fractions on the board (e.g., 1/2, 2/4, 3/6).
  • Ask students to describe what they notice about these fractions.
  • Introduce the term "equivalent fractions" and invite students to discuss what they think it means.

• Objective Setting:

  • Share the lesson objectives with students. Explain the importance of understanding equivalent fractions in real life (e.g., in cooking, sharing, etc.).

Direct Instruction (15 minutes)

• Demonstration with Fraction Circles:

  • Distribute fraction circles to each student.
  • Show how to combine different fractions using the circles (e.g., 1/2 + 1/2 = 2/2 = 1 whole).
  • Highlight specific pairs of equivalent fractions by overlapping pieces (e.g., showing how 1/2 is the same as 2/4).

• Visual Representation:

  • On the whiteboard, create a visual diagram that represents equivalent fractions, using a number line and fraction bar.
  • Focus on explaining why fractions are equivalent mathematically, using multiplication and division of the numerator and denominator.

Guided Practice (15 minutes)

• Activity: Fraction Creation:

  • In pairs, students will cut and colour their own fraction bars on A4 paper, using a ruler to ensure accuracy.
  • Students will then create at least three pairs of equivalent fractions, showing their work visually. They will label each fraction (e.g., 1/2, 2/4) clearly.

• Discussion:

  • Students will share their pairs with the class, explaining their reasoning for why the fractions are equivalent.

Independent Practice (5 minutes)

• Equivalent Fraction Worksheets:
  • Hand out an equivalent fraction worksheet with both numerical and visual representation questions.
  • Students will complete the worksheet individually, applying what they learned from the demonstrations and their own work.

Assessment and Reflection (5 minutes)

• Quick Quiz:

  • Conduct a quick quiz where students hold up cards (paper with just a fraction) showing one of the equivalent fractions discussed.
  • Use thumbs up/down or a mini whiteboard to answer a couple of true/false questions about equivalence (e.g., "Is 3/6 equivalent to 1/2?").

• Reflection:

  • Conclude by asking students to reflect on what they learned during the lesson. Pose the question, "Why is it helpful to know about equivalent fractions?" Allow a few students to share their thoughts.

Differentiation

• Support:

  • Provide simpler fraction examples for students needing additional help.
  • Offer one-to-one support for students who struggle to understand the concept.

• Challenge:

  • For those grasping the concept quickly, challenge them to find equivalent fractions for larger denominators (e.g., 5/15) or engage them in a problem-solving task involving real-world scenarios.

Homework (Optional)

• Give students a worksheet for home practice to reinforce the concept of equivalent fractions further. Include both numerical and visual representation tasks.

Summary

The lesson integrates visual and hands-on learning methods to ensure understanding of equivalent fractions in an enjoyable and interactive manner. Through shared discussions, collaborative work, and independent practice, students will develop a robust understanding and ability to articulate the concept of equivalent fractions effectively.