Fractions - Equivalent Fractions (3) - Planning

In the Year 4 curriculum, a lesson on equivalent fractions takes centre stage, aiming to bolster students' understanding of this fundamental mathematical concept. The lesson begins with a review of prior knowledge, setting the stage for the day's focus on identifying and creating equivalent fractions. Students are introduced to key terms such as 'fraction', 'numerator', 'denominator', and 'equivalent fractions', with supporting resources such as worksheets, a presentation, and a fraction wall available to enhance their learning experience. The class is taught the principle that multiplying both the numerator and denominator by the same number results in an equivalent fraction, and this concept is explored through practical activities involving paper folding and square paper to visually demonstrate how fractions can be equivalent.

Further practical activities involve the use of Cuisenaire rods and a fraction wall to deepen understanding. Students engage in partner discussions to identify multiple fractions equivalent to one half, and they are challenged with reasoning tasks that require critical thinking and application of the concept. For instance, they evaluate a peer's statement about equivalent fractions and explore how shapes can be folded to represent different fractions. The lesson is differentiated to cater to varying levels of proficiency, ranging from identifying equivalent fractions on a labelled fraction wall to using an unlabelled wall to discover as many equivalents as possible. The session ends with a reflective 'Give me five' activity where students consider what they've learned, the skills they've used and found challenging, and what they will remember for future lessons. The aim is to ensure that students can confidently find and understand equivalent fractions, a skill that extends beyond the classroom to real-life applications.