Unit 1 kicks off our year with a study of fractions. Students will build with unit fractions, continue their work with equivalent fractions, use a variety of strategies for comparing fractions, and add/subtract fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators.

Check out this video for a review of adding fractions with the same denominator!

Now move on to adding fractions with unlike, or different denominators!

Adding Unlike Denominators

Finally, we will work with adding

and subtracting using mixed numbers.

Check out this video of Ben's strategy for subtracting a mixed number from a whole number!

Strategies for FINDING a common denominator.

Subtracting Mixed Numbers with Regrouping!

Most students are using this strategy.

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Comparing Fractions

Students should use a variety of strategies for comparing fractions. Using a common denominator will always work, but it is not always the easiest strategy. Developing other strategies also fosters deeper fraction understanding in general.

Some strategies to try:

* Common Denominator: Change one or both denominators so they are the same.

* Same numerator: If the numerators are the same, think about the size of the pieces.

2/3 compared to 2/5 fifths are smaller so 2/3 is the larger fraction.

* Use a benchmark number like 1/2 or one whole.

For example, 5/6 is greater than 1/2 and 1/8 is less than 1/2 , so 5/6 is greater than 1/8.

* Missing piece: If both fractions are one unit fraction away from the whole, think about which pieces are smaller. 5/6 is 1/6 away from one whole. 2/3 is 1/3 away from one whole. sixths are smaller so 5/6 is just one small piece away from 1. 5/6 is greater than 2/3.