Fractions / Creating Equivalent Fractions

Understanding

Students will use multiplication and area models to generate equivalent fractions. Students learn that equivalent fractions can be generated by multiplying a given fraction by a fraction equal to 1.

What to look for

Have students observe several examples of creating equivalent fractions. Then lead them in a discussion of their observations.

Sample Assessment

a.  (5/4) = (BLANK/BLANK)

Possible answer:  (5/4) = (15/12)

b.  (3/ BLANK) = (BLANK/ 21)   
Possible answer:  (3/7) = (9/ 21)

The Big Idea

The fraction (n/n), where n is not equal to 0, is the same as the number 1.

What are the students doing?

Have students work in pairs so that student has an opportunity to generate an equivalent fraction and explain their method to the other.

What is the teacher doing?

As students explore multiplying fractions to create equivalent fractions, encourage them to make predictions and explain their reasoning.