Fractions - Add Fractions Greater than 1 - Planning

The Year 5 lesson plan on adding fractions greater than 1 aligns with the National Curriculum objectives to add and subtract fractions with the same denominator and denominators that are multiples of the same number. Key vocabulary such as 'proper fraction', 'improper fraction', 'numerator', 'denominator', and 'common denominator' is emphasized to help students understand the concepts. The lesson begins with a recap of previous learning and a starter activity where students answer questions to review their knowledge. The first activity involves a pictorial method, where students add fractions like ¼, 4/16, and 4/64 using a visual representation. This exercise helps students recognize equivalent fractions and the process of finding a common denominator. Although the solution is found, the simplification of the answer is reserved for the next lesson. The students are also encouraged to express their answers as mixed numbers, drawing upon their prior learning.

Further into the lesson, students are introduced to bar modelling as another visual strategy for adding fractions. This approach reinforces the skills acquired and allows students to practice additional calculations. The lesson includes group work where children discuss and apply reasoning to solve problems, using the key vocabulary they have learned. The plenary session includes 'Give me five' reflection prompts, where students consider what they have learned, the skills they have used, and what they found challenging. They also reflect on the resources or support that helped them during the lesson and make a 'pinkie promise' to remember key aspects of what they have learned. The lesson accommodates different levels of understanding, from 'working towards' to 'working at greater depth', ensuring that all students can progress and deepen their understanding of adding fractions with a greater value than 1.