Fractions - Mixed numbers to improper (bar model) - Presentation

In an engaging mathematics lesson, students delve into the world of fractions by learning how to convert mixed numbers into improper fractions. The class begins with a review, where examples of mixed numbers and improper fractions are shared and discussed. The lesson's core activity involves practical exercises where students are tasked with transforming mixed numbers into improper fractions by understanding the equivalent value of wholes in terms of eighths, quarters, fifths, sixths, and sevenths. For instance, they explore how one whole can be equivalent to a specific number of eighths, and then apply this knowledge to convert mixed numbers like 3 3/8 into an improper fraction using visual aids such as cubes to represent the concept.

Students continue to build their skills with a second activity that employs bar models to facilitate the conversion process. This visual method helps to clearly illustrate how many of a certain fraction make up a whole, allowing students to break down mixed numbers into their improper fraction counterparts. For example, they learn to convert 6 1/7 into 43 sevenths by understanding that 6 wholes equal 42 sevenths, and then adding the remaining fraction. The lesson also includes reasoning exercises where students analyze mistakes made in the conversion process, encouraging critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the relationship between mixed numbers and improper fractions. The lesson concludes with independent work and group discussions that prompt students to use terms like numerator and denominator, and to explore the efficiency of different methods for comparing fractions.