Fractions - Equivalent Fractions (1) - Presentation

In this educational presentation, students revisit the concept of equivalent fractions, delving into the multiplicative relationship between numerators and denominators to understand what equivalence means in the context of fractions. The lesson begins with a discussion prompt, encouraging students to consider the nature of equivalence. Through visual aids, students are asked to identify equivalent fractions, such as determining that 1/3 is equivalent to 3/9 and 1/4 to 2/8, by multiplying both the numerator and denominator by the same number. This visual approach helps illustrate the concept that although the numbers may look different, the fractions represent the same proportion of a whole.

Hands-on activities further reinforce the understanding of equivalent fractions. One activity involves using paper strips folded into quarters and eighths to demonstrate that one quarter is equivalent to two eighths. Another activity uses squared paper to compare fractions visually, for example, showing that 3/4 is equivalent to 6/8. Students also explore a fraction wall to find multiple fractions equivalent to one half, such as 2/4, 3/6, and 4/8. The lesson includes reasoning tasks where students evaluate statements about fraction equivalence, correcting misconceptions such as the idea that fractions with the same numerator are equivalent regardless of the denominator. The session concludes with independent work and a discussion on patterns observed between equivalent numerators and denominators, encouraging further investigation with manipulatives like Cuisenaire rods or pattern blocks.