Fractions - Compare Fractions (Less Than One) - Presentation

The interactive lesson on comparing fractions with values less than one guides students through various methods to determine which of two fractions is larger. The lesson begins by asking students to consider different types of fractions they might compare. The initial activities focus on direct comparisons of fractions such as 1/2 and 3/4, encouraging students to use visual aids like bar models to better understand the size of each fraction. This visual approach aids in grasping the concept that a larger denominator signifies smaller individual parts, thus helping students to compare fractions effectively.

Further activities delve into comparing fractions by finding common numerators or denominators. For instance, students compare 4/5 and 2/7 by considering the size of the parts when the numerators are aligned. The lesson also includes reasoning tasks, such as correcting misconceptions about fraction equality and exploring when it is possible to simplify fractions to have the same denominators. Independent work reinforces the learning, where students use bar models to compare fractions and justify their reasoning. The discussion prompts students to reflect on the effectiveness of bar models in visualising fraction sizes and the importance of having bars of equal size to accurately compare fractions. Students are also encouraged to think critically about whether it is always necessary to find a common denominator or if a common numerator can also be used for comparison.