Lesson plan

2. Comparing fractions using number lines and area models (FP)

  • From K-5 Math Companion Curriculum
  • Created by
  • Standards
  • Tags:
teaches Common Core State Standards 3.NF.A.3 http://corestandards.org/Math/Content/3/NF/A/3
teaches Common Core State Standards 3.NF.A.3.d http://corestandards.org/Math/Content/3/NF/A/3/d
teaches Common Core State Standards MP4 http://corestandards.org/Math/Practice/MP4
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Lesson objective: Practice comparing fractions by reasoning about their size using number lines and area models.

This lesson helps to build fluency with comparing fractions. Visual models are used here because it supports and develops student thinking around fractions and reasoning about the size of fractional numbers. This work develops students' understanding that fractions can be compared.

Students engage in Mathematical Practice 4 (Model with mathematics) as they create visual representations of models with the purpose of comparing them.

Key vocabulary:

  • area model
  • compare
  • denominator
  • number line
  • numerator
  • tape diagram

Special materials needed:

  • fraction strips
  • paper
  • pencil