Lesson 14
How Do You Compare Fractions?
Lesson Purpose
The purpose of this lesson is for students to represent and compare fractions in a way that makes sense to them.
Lesson Narrative
Previously, students used various representations to make sense of fractions and their size. In this lesson, students consider representations that will be helpful for comparisons, such as diagrams, fraction strips, and number lines. They also learn that comparisons are valid only when the fractions being compared refer to the same size whole. This lesson does not discuss specific strategies for comparing different types of fractions as the intent is to elicit different ways to reason about comparison.
- Engagement
- MLR8
Learning Goals
Teacher Facing
- Represent and compare fractions in a way that makes sense to them.
Student Facing
- Let’s represent and compare fractions.
Required Materials
Materials to Gather
Required Preparation
CCSS Standards
Addressing
Lesson Timeline
| Warm-up | 10 min |
| Activity 1 | 25 min |
| Activity 2 | 10 min |
| Lesson Synthesis | 10 min |
| Cool-down | 5 min |
Teacher Reflection Questions
Reflect on a time recently when your thinking about what students understand changed. How will you alter your teaching practice to incorporate your new understanding?
Suggested Centers
- Rolling for Fractions (3–5), Stage 1: Equivalent Fractions (Addressing)
- Number Line Scoot (2–3), Stage 3: Halves, Thirds, Fourths, Sixths and Eighths (Addressing)
- Five in a Row: Multiplication (3–5), Stage 2: Factors 1–9 (Supporting)