Big Ideas: Finding equivalent fractions allows us to add or subtract mixed numbers.
This lesson builds on students' work adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. In this task, students are presented a deli list containing fractions with unlike denominators and asked to find the sum and differences of various items’ weights. The mathematical concept in this lesson builds toward future use in solving ratio, rate, and proportion problems, and prepares students for work with greatest common factors and least common multiples in 6th grade algebra.
Vocabulary: number line, numerator, unlike and like denominator, pound (lb)
Special Materials:
Ruler (optional)
Lesson plan