Fractions - Fractions of a quantity - Starter

In a mathematics lesson designed for Year 4 students during the Spring Term, Week 8, Day 3, the focus is on understanding fractions of a quantity. The lesson starts with a "Fluent in Four" revision section, which includes a variety of multiplication problems aimed at reinforcing quick mental arithmetic. For instance, students are tasked with finding the missing number in equations such as "4 × _ = 28" and "44 × _ = 88 × 4". These exercises serve to warm up the students' mathematical thinking and prepare them for the main topic of the day.

The core of the lesson revolves around the use of fractions to determine a portion of a given quantity. In one of the exercises, Malachi demonstrates the use of a bar model and counters to find four-fifths of 25, which is calculated to be 20. The students are then presented with several fraction problems where they must apply their understanding to find the value of different fractions of quantities, such as four-sixths, one-sixth, eleven-twelfths, and more. Additionally, the lesson includes real-life applications of fractions, asking students to calculate the total amount of money in a jar using the given fractions. This practical approach helps to contextualise fractions in everyday scenarios, enhancing the students' comprehension and ability to work with fractions in various situations.