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.
Finally, we will work with adding
and subtracting using mixed numbers.
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Check out this video of Ben's strategy for subtracting a mixed number from a whole number!
Strategies for FINDING a common denominator.
Comparing Fractions
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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.
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Some strategies to try:
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* Common Denominator: Change one or both denominators so they are the same.
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* 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.
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* 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.
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* 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.