Visual models support young mathematicians with exploring equivalent fractions. Starting with a quick warm-up problem, children go on to work through a series of guiding practice problems before working with a partner identifying and describing the fractions represented by a series of visual models.

Concepts

equivalent fractions, fraction models, fractions

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Additional Tags

fraction, fraction model, representing fractions, fraction circle, unit fraction, equivalent fraction, visual model, math

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Instructional Ideas

• Include this lesson in an upper-elementary math unit on fractions
• Allow children to work on the warm-up question with a partner, having them share their responses during a brief discussion of the problem
• As an extension activity, have students create and label their own visual fraction models
• If the technology is available, allow children to use the online fraction circle and fraction bar manipulatives when completing the included worksheet

Classroom Considerations

• Lesson calls for the use of fractions circles, if these manipulatives are unavailable in your class, create sets for each student using the provided templates

Pros

• Includes templates of fraction circles for both the teacher and students to use during the lesson
• Multiple examples are provided to support teachers with instruction
• Lesson uses both circular and rectangular models to represent fractions
• Offers numerous online manipulatives that engage students in learning about fractions

Cons

• None

Common Core

3.NF.A.1 3.NF.A.3.a 3.NF.A.3.b 4.NF.A.1 4.NF.B.3.a MP5 MP7