Lesson Planning

Day 1
Use a fraction wall to show equivalent fractions. Draw out that if we multiply the numerator and denominator by the same number, we derive an equivalent fraction. Demonstrate how we use this to simplify fractions by dividing the numerator and denominator by their highest common factor.
Group Activities:
Y5/Y6 -- Use two number cards to make a fraction, and simplify, if possible.

Day 2
Model comparing fractions with related denominators using Fractions ITP.
Further Teaching with Y6
Challenge children to prove which of two fractions with unrelated denominators is bigger. Show how to use common multiples to write both fractions as the same sort (with the same denominator).
Group Activities:
Use the ‘Fraction pictures’ in-depth problem-solving investigation below as today’s group activity.
Or, use these activities:
Y5 -- Write lots of fractions equivalent to 1/2, then say whether fractions > or < 1/2, then > or < 1/3.
Y6 -- Compare pairs of fractions by changing one or both so they have the same denominator.

Day 3
Use a bar model to show sevenths of children in a school. Find the number of children in reception (1/7), KS1 (2/7) and KS2 (4/7).
Group Activities:
Y5 -- Draw bar models to find unit, then non-unit fractions of amounts.
Y6 -- Play fractions of amounts bingo, or use a bar model to help solve word problems finding non-unit fractions of amounts.