Fractions - Subtract fractions - Starter

In a mathematics lesson aimed at Year 3 students during the Summer Term, the focus is on subtracting fractions as well as revising subtraction of whole numbers. The lesson begins with a 'Fluent in Four' activity that includes a subtraction problem involving hundreds, tens, and ones, where students must calculate the difference between two numbers. For example, from 9 hundreds, 4 ones, and 6 tens, students subtract 5 hundreds, 7 tens, and 3 ones to find the result. Additionally, they use a bar model to visually represent and solve a fraction subtraction problem, specifically subtracting one fraction from another when both have the same denominator.

Students are then encouraged to complete a part-whole model and create four number sentences that correspond to the model. This activity helps them understand the relationship between different parts of a number and how they combine to form the whole. The lesson also includes a practical application of fractions: students are given a scenario where Rosie collects 36 eggs and uses half of them to make a cake. The students must calculate how many eggs she used, reinforcing their understanding of fractions in real-life contexts. This comprehensive approach to teaching fractions ensures that students not only practice arithmetic but also comprehend the concepts behind the numbers.