Compare fractions with like denominators by using models

Big Ideas: A fraction describes the relationship between the part and the whole. The size of the denominator determines the size of the piece compared to the whole This lessons builds on students' work with fractions. This task uses a scenario in which students are walking to school and planting gardens. Students are presented with the distance each person has to walk to school and asked to determine who walked the shortest distance by comparing the fractional amounts. By comparing the distance walked, students are forced to reason about the size of the fraction and justify their reasoning using models. In the second portion of the lesson, students are planting a garden. Again, students are comparing the fractional amount completed and reasoning about the size to determine which student is the closest to completing the task. The mathematical concepts in this lesson build towards students' future work with solving problems that involve comparing fractions by using strategies based on noticing equal denominators. Vocabulary: Number Line Fraction Equivalent Numerator Denominator Compare Reason Special Materials: Paper, crayons, fraction strips