When it comes to teaching comparisons of fractions, models can be a fantastic tool to help students understand the concept better. Comparing fractions with like numerators or denominators is an essential component of the topic, and educators have a plethora of activities to address the issue comprehensively. Let’s delve into some of the activities that educators can employ in the classroom to teach students to compare fractions with like numerators or denominators using models.

1. Brownie fractions

Students are bound to get excited about baking, so why not incorporate that into their math lessons? Brownie fractions are an activity where students can use a real-life example to compare fractions with like denominators. Have each student or pair of students bake two batches of brownies, but one batch will make more brownies than the other by increasing the total quantity of the ingredients in each batch. They will then cut the brownies into fractions with like denominators and compare them visually.

2. Fraction bingo

Fraction bingo can be an entertaining and fun way for your students to learn how to compare fractions. They will use bingo cards with fractions on them; the denominators on the cards should be the same but have different numerators. The teacher will preselect the fractions that they will be using for the activity. The students will then compare the fractions that are called, and whoever completes a line or a full card can shout out “bingo!”.

3. Color-coded fraction bars

Color-coded fraction bars are an excellent way of introducing the topic to students. The activity can start with students using colored papers to craft pieces of fraction bars that have the same denominators but different numerators. The students will then lay the bars alongside one another, and a discussion is initiated on comparing the size of each fraction. The students can then record their findings on paper and see the visual representation of each fraction’s size.

4. Card games

Card games are a fun way to teach students how to compare fractions. Similar to bingo, using cards with fractions on them, you can deal the cards to the students and have them compare the fractions in pairs or groups. The students can match the cards with the same denominators or numerators, and the ones with the larger fractions win the round.

5. Fraction sort

Fraction sort is an activity that combines the use of models and comparisons. The students cut out different fraction pieces with the same denominators or numerators and sort them according to size. They take turns sorting the pieces, and the teacher mediates the discussion to ensure they’re on the right path.

Conclusion

The above activities to teach students to compare fractions with like numerators or denominators using models are among the many ways that educators can adapt to different learning styles in the classroom. By employing real-life examples, games, and models, students can learn to compare fractions more effectively. Teachers should tap into common interests and hobbies to make math more fun and accessible.