Fractions - Making the whole - Planning

The Year 3 Spring curriculum on Fractions introduces students to the concept of 'Making the Whole'. The National Curriculum objectives for this unit involve recognising and demonstrating equivalent fractions with small denominators, comparing and ordering unit fractions and those with identical denominators, as well as adding and subtracting fractions within one whole. The unit also aims to develop problem-solving skills that encompass all the aforementioned areas. Key vocabulary terms such as 'equal', 'unequal', 'whole', 'part', 'numerator', and 'denominator' are central to the students' understanding of fractions. The lesson plan includes a variety of resources, including a teaching presentation, classroom objects, square-shaped paper, scissors, counters, and cubes or blocks to facilitate hands-on learning. The children will engage in activities that help them grasp the concept of dividing whole objects and numbers into equal and unequal parts or groups.

The lesson begins with a discussion about wholes and parts, using a child as an example to demonstrate the concept of parts making up a whole. Students then explore equal and unequal groups through practical activities, ensuring they understand that it's the number of parts, not attributes like colour, that define equality in groups. Partner discussions and practical tasks further reinforce the concepts, with children working through tasks independently and then coming together for a mini-plenary to discuss reasoning tasks. The lesson is structured to cater to different levels of understanding, from 'Working Towards' to 'Greater Depth', with tasks designed to challenge students at their respective levels. Throughout the lesson, key questions prompt students to consider the nature of wholes, parts, and how to systematically find different ways to group objects, while addressing common misconceptions and ensuring a comprehensive understanding of fractions.