User Guide
about fractions to show this amount with their pieces. Then have a
volunteer model it on the overhead. Continue writing other fractions
such as
,
,
,
,
,
,
and
,
as students use their pieces to show the
amounts. Then make models on the overhead.
Exploring Equivalent Fractions
Display
on the overhead. Ask pairs of students to identify the piece
and to find the corresponding piece in their set. Ask, “Are there other
pieces the same size as
? How could you find out?” Discuss ways of
finding equivalent parts, including placing pieces on top of others to
compare. Allow students time to find all the parts they can that are
equivalent to
.
(Answers:
,
,
,
,
.
) Some students also may choose
to show one half as
+
,
+
, or
+
.
To record their findings,
students might write the fractions or cut and paste paper circles on
paper. Then call the group together to share results on the overhead.
Ask students to find equivalent fractions for other amounts such as
,
and
.
Comparing and Ordering to Make a Number Line
Write the following on the chalkboard:
Give pairs of students a set of fraction circles, and ask them to find the
piece that represents each fraction written on the chalkboard, then
arrange these pieces in order from largest to smallest. (Note: For older
students, include other fractions such as
,
,
, and
.
)
After students have arranged the pieces in order, form a fraction number
line together. Ask volunteers to show their arrangements on the
overhead, then describe their ordering. Discuss and reorder the sequence
as necessary, until all students agree. Then give each student paper, and
help them draw and complete a number line, ordering the fractions
from smallest to largest. Discuss the number line when it is completed,
inviting students to describe any patterns they notice.
How Many Ways Can You Make One Whole?
Place all the overhead fraction pieces next to the projector. Form two
whole circles using the halves and fourths. Ask the students to describe
what they see, helping them understand that each whole circle is formed
with the same size pieces (equal parts). Volunteers can form fraction
circles with equal parts on the overhead, using thirds, fifths, sixths,
eighths, tenths and twelfths. Keep a list or draw a picture on chart paper
to show each whole circle that students form.
1
1
2
1
3
1
4
1
5
1
6
1
8
1
10
1
12
1
12
1
10
1
6
1
8
1
5
1
4
1
3
1
2
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