Comparing Fractions: A Deeper Look

Are your students struggling with fractions? Could the way we were taught fraction concepts add to students' misconceptions?

Think about the way we were taught fractions when we were younger. We did not spend time thinking and exploring with unit fractions, the very building block of fractions. This left many of us with cracks in our foundations that are passed along to our students. 

I get it! We teach the way we were taught, BUT when we continue to have students who never really understand fractions, it's time to try something different. 

After working with teachers and students year after year, I went back to the drawing board. I asked myself the question, "What keeps students from being successful with fractions?"

After discussions and observations with teachers and students, I had my answer.  We don't spend enough time allowing students to explore and make connections using the building block- the unit fraction!

It's time to rethink what we know! 

We can start now, and become more intentional about the experiences we give students to explore, discuss, and make connections using unit fractions. 

This is why I'm so excited about this video where I talk about how we can use the building block of fractions to help students develop fraction sense. It starts with a shift in our thinking.

Since this post is all about using unit fractions to build foundational understandings, I have a mini-lesson, guided practice and independent practice that focuses on building these conceptual understandings.

Download Building Fraction Sense: Exploring Components of Fractions (< and = 1).

Use this document as a starting place to help you begin rethinking the way fractions are taught. 

If you're ready to learn how we can help students develop fraction sense and make connections that last a lifetime, take a listen to "Comparing Fractions".  Don't forget to download Building Fraction Sense: Exploring Components of Fractions (< and = 1). Click the green button above. 

Minute Markers & Highlights of the video that you don’t want to miss:

[0:50] What kids should know about one fraction before comparing it to another fraction

[3:00] How to reason about fractions and justify their reasoning using representations

[3:48] The language we should be using and expecting students to use

[5:30] How to use the unit fraction and the benchmark 1 half to compare fractions

When we change our language and provide intentional experiences with fractions, students will make connections that will benefit them for years to come. Help your kids develop strong fraction sense by focusing on the building block- unit fraction. It makes all the difference!

If you haven't already, be sure to download Building Fraction Sense: Exploring Components of Fractions (< and = 1). Rethink your instruction and get ready to hear the amazing conversations that happens in your room. Let us know how it goes!

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