Fraction Action: Rectangles

Explicit Instruction/Teacher modeling

• Show students a model of 2 circles. Model dividing both of the circles into 4 equal parts. Shade ¼ and ¾ on the different circles.
• Discuss with students which is greater.
• Show students a third circle. Divide this circle into 3 parts. Shade 1 of the parts. Direct students to compare the circle showing ¼ and 1/3.
• Discuss with students how both have the same numerator but different denominators. Emphasize the importance of looking at the part shaded in view of the whole circle.
• Repeat and continue to discuss this concept using more examples.

Guided Practice

• Give each student a Fraction Rectangles worksheet.
• Have students cut out each large rectangle and shade the amount of parts of their choosing.
• Divide students into pairs. Have students compare the fractions and record the relationship using the signs. For example, if one student colored in 7 and another colored in 3, the students would write: 7/8 > 3/8.

Independent working time

• Distribute a second copy of the Fraction Rectangles worksheet.
• Instruct your students to repeat the guided practice activity individually.
• Have students glue rectangles to the construction paper and write the numerals and correct comparison sign between the rectangles.