Fractions - Fraction of an amount - Planning

In the fourth week of the Autumn term, Year 6 students delve into the topic of fractions, specifically focusing on calculating a fraction of an amount. The lesson is structured with a starter activity to review previous learning, followed by class teaching input, independent learning tasks, and a plenary to consolidate understanding. Key vocabulary terms such as 'fractions', 'numerator', 'denominator', and 'division' are highlighted, with resources such as worksheets and a presentation to aid learning. Students are encouraged to discuss and solve problems in pairs, using bar models to visually represent the fractions and understand the division of quantities into equal parts. For example, if a bar representing 48kg is divided into eight equal pieces, students will determine the weight of individual pieces and the total weight of a specified number of those pieces.

In the lesson, students engage in various activities that require them to interpret word problems and apply their knowledge of fractions. They practice dividing a whole amount by the denominator to find the value of one part and then multiply by the numerator to find the value of the fraction in question. Patterns in calculations are observed, with students noting how changes in numerators, denominators, or amounts affect the outcome. Group work and differentiated worksheets provide opportunities for reasoning and fluency development. The lesson aims to address common misconceptions, such as confusing the roles of the numerator and denominator, and reinforces understanding through the use of bar models. Students reflect on the skills they've used and the concepts they've learned, ensuring they remember the procedures for finding fractions of amounts. The lesson caters to different levels of understanding, from working towards expected standards to achieving greater depth in fluency and problem-solving.