Equivalent Fractions

Objectives

To understand that different fractions can represent the same sized piece or amount.

To understand the relationship between the numerators and denominators of equivalent fractions.

Resources

Abacus 4 Textbook 1 | Squared paper | Introducing Equivalent Fractions (MyMaths)

Today's Lesson

Main Activity

New pupils should learn the 10 times table this week. Point out the pattern in the answers.

Look at the fraction wall on page 55 in Abacus 4 Textbook 1.

Ask your student to identify any fraction that is the same size as another fraction. For example:

1/2 = 2/4 = 3/6 = 4/8

Show your student the line down the centre for each fraction mentioned and show your student that all of them equal 1/2 in size. Look at the numerator and denominator. In each case, the top number is exactly half the bottom number. Therefore, each fraction is equivalent to 1/2. Using a ruler placed vertically, draw it across the chart to identify any other equivalent fractions. For example:

1/4 = 2/8

3/4 = 6/8

1/5 = 2/10

Run through section 5 from Introducing Equivalent Fractions (MyMaths) to see an interactive version.

In each case, draw attention to the numerator and denominator and point out the relationship. For example, if we multiply or divide the top and bottom by the same number, we can find an equivalent fraction. For example:

1/5

Multiply the top and bottom by 2:

2 x 1 = 2

2 x 5 = 10

So an equivalent fraction to 1/5 is 2/10

Another example:

10/12

We know that both of these numbers are even, so will divide by 2:

10 ÷ 2 = 5

12 ÷ 2 = 6

So an equivalent fraction to 10/12 is 5/6

For questions 1 – 8, look at the fractions and discuss each one with your student as they work on them. Find each fraction on the wall, to make use of the visual aid provided.

For questions 9 – 16, watch the 'Simplifying fractions' video to see how both numerator and denominator have been divided by the same amount to give a simplified fraction.

Citations

[1] app.mymaths.co.uk