Fractions - What is a fraction? - Planning

The Year 5 lesson plan on fractions introduces students to the concept and different representations of fractions, aligning with the National Curriculum objectives. The lesson aims to help students identify, name, and write equivalent fractions visually, including tenths and hundredths. Additionally, students will learn to recognise mixed numbers and improper fractions, converting between the two and writing mathematical statements greater than one as a mixed number. Key vocabulary such as 'equivalent fractions', 'numerator', 'denominator', and 'convert' are emphasised, with resources like worksheets, presentations, and Cuisenaire rods provided to facilitate learning. The lesson begins with a starter activity that recaps the meaning of key terms and notations, followed by various activities where students sort cards representing fractions, complete Frayer models to understand unit and non-unit fractions, and use Cuisenaire rods to explore fractions represented by different coloured rods.

Throughout the lesson, students engage in partner discussions and practical activities to deepen their understanding of fractions. They are encouraged to sort fraction cards, use models to describe terms, and explore fractions with Cuisenaire rods, answering key questions to reflect on their learning. Misconceptions are addressed, such as understanding the role of the denominator and not assuming that more parts mean a larger fraction. The lesson concludes with differentiated activities and reasoning tasks, where students must decide the correctness of fraction representations and tackle 'always, sometimes, never' questions. The plenary session allows students to reflect on what they have learned, the skills they have used and found tricky, and what they will remember from the lesson. Differentiated tasks cater to students working towards expected levels and those aiming for greater depth, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of fractions.