Equivalent Fractions (Lesson 9 of 18)

This lesson plan, from the Contextualize to Learn project at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, provides an opportunity for students to explore equivalent fractions. In this lesson, students work in pairs to draw fraction models using equal-sized strips of paper. Students will learn to interpret a fraction as division, recognize equivalent fractions, express natural numbers as fractions, and explain the process of reducing fractions. Included in the lesson plan is a student and instructor guide, as well as a homework assignment with solutions. This lesson requires the following manipulatives: colored sheets of paper (3 different colors) cut into equal-sized strips.

The expected total time for the lesson is 110 minutes.