Fractions - Fraction Problem Solving - Starter

The 'Fluent in Four' revision exercises are designed to sharpen the mathematical skills of Year 5 students during the Spring Term, specifically in Week 9. These activities challenge the pupils' understanding of fractions, division, and multiplication through a series of problems. For instance, students are tasked with solving time-related questions such as "3 past 3" and performing calculations like "64 ÷ 8" and "Half of 882 ÷ half of 98." The exercises further test the children's proficiency with multiplication, asking them to find products like "6 x 8" and "6 x 12," as well as their division skills with questions such as "36 ÷ 6" and "24 ÷ 6." Additionally, the students are encouraged to apply their knowledge of symmetry by completing figures to make them symmetrical.

Another aspect of the exercises involves problem-solving related to real-world scenarios, such as comparing weights. For example, students must determine who is heavier between Brenda, who weighs 42 kg, and Grace, who weighs 35 kg and a fraction of Brenda's weight. This requires the application of fraction addition to find the total weight. The exercises also incorporate spatial reasoning and geometry, as students are asked to find the area of different coloured blocks in a tower and draw shapes at specific coordinates on a grid. These varied tasks are designed to build a strong foundation in fundamental mathematical concepts and to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in the students.