Fraction Frenzy: Comparing Fractions Like a Pro!

Mathematics Grades 5th Grade 7:43 Video
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Lesson Description

Learn how to compare fractions with different denominators using common denominators and benchmark fractions like 1/2. This lesson will make you a fraction comparison master!

Video Resource

Comparing Fractions | How to Compare Fractions

Math with Mr. J

Duration: 7:43
Watch on YouTube

Key Concepts

  • Common Denominator
  • Equivalent Fractions
  • Benchmark Fractions (1/2)

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to find a common denominator for two fractions with unlike denominators.
  • Students will be able to rename fractions using a common denominator.
  • Students will be able to compare two fractions using common denominators and benchmark fractions like 1/2.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by reviewing what a fraction represents and asking students to share examples of fractions they see in everyday life (e.g., half a pizza, quarter of an hour). Introduce the concept of comparing fractions and explain why it's important.
  • Video Viewing (10 mins)
    Play the "Comparing Fractions | How to Compare Fractions" video by Math with Mr. J. Encourage students to take notes on the steps he outlines for comparing fractions.
  • Guided Practice (15 mins)
    Work through the examples from the video as a class. Pause the video at each example and ask students to predict the answer before Mr. J reveals it. Discuss Mr. J's strategies (common denominators, benchmark fractions) and answer any questions students may have.
  • Independent Practice (15 mins)
    Provide students with a worksheet containing a variety of fraction comparison problems. Encourage them to use both common denominators and benchmark fractions as strategies. Circulate to provide support as needed.
  • Wrap-up (5 mins)
    Review the key concepts of the lesson and answer any remaining questions. Have students share their favorite strategy for comparing fractions. Preview the next lesson on adding and subtracting fractions.

Interactive Exercises

  • Fraction War Card Game
    Divide students into pairs. Each pair receives a deck of cards with fractions written on them. Students each flip over a card, and the student with the larger fraction wins both cards. The student with the most cards at the end wins the game.
  • Fraction Number Line Activity
    Provide students with a number line and a set of fractions. Have them place the fractions on the number line to help them compare their values.

Discussion Questions

  • Why is it important to have a common denominator when comparing fractions?
  • How can using a benchmark fraction like 1/2 help you compare fractions?
  • What are some real-life situations where you might need to compare fractions?

Skills Developed

  • Problem-solving
  • Critical thinking
  • Number sense

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

To compare fractions with different denominators, what should you find first?

Correct Answer: A common denominator

Question 2:

Which fraction is bigger: 2/4 or 3/4?

Correct Answer: 3/4

Question 3:

What is a fraction we can use to help compare other fractions?

Correct Answer: Benchmark fraction

Question 4:

Which of these fractions is equal to 1/2?

Correct Answer: 2/4

Question 5:

Which is bigger, 1/3 or 1/4?

Correct Answer: 1/3

Question 6:

Which symbol means 'less than'?

Correct Answer: <

Question 7:

What's a quick way to tell if a fraction is bigger than 1/2?

Correct Answer: See if the top number is more than half of the bottom number

Question 8:

Which fraction is larger: 3/5 or 6/10?

Correct Answer: They are equal

Question 9:

What do you call fractions that have the same value, like 1/2 and 2/4?

Correct Answer: Equivalent fractions

Question 10:

Which fraction is less than 1/2?

Correct Answer: 3/7

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

A ___________ ___________ helps us compare fractions to one-half.

Correct Answer: benchmark fraction

Question 2:

Fractions that have the same value are called ___________ fractions.

Correct Answer: equivalent

Question 3:

To compare fractions with unlike denominators, we need to find a ___________ __________.

Correct Answer: common denominator

Question 4:

The symbol '<' means ___________ ___________.

Correct Answer: less than

Question 5:

The top number in a fraction is called the ___________.

Correct Answer: numerator

Question 6:

The bottom number in a fraction is called the ___________.

Correct Answer: denominator

Question 7:

1/2 is a common ___________ fraction.

Correct Answer: benchmark

Question 8:

To find an equivalent fraction, you must multiply the top and bottom numbers by the ___________ number.

Correct Answer: same

Question 9:

When two fractions have the same denominator, the fraction with the ___________ numerator is larger.

Correct Answer: bigger

Question 10:

Fractions can be compared on a ___________ __________.

Correct Answer: number line

Educational Standards

5.N.1.3:Compare and order decimals and fractions, including mixed numbers and fractions less than one, and locate on a number line. 5.N.1.4:Recognize and generate equivalent terminating decimals, fractions, mixed numbers, and fractions in various models.

Teaching Materials

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