Form 9: Learning Guide

Module Name: #4 How can we compute with fractions? Course Name: Introduction to Fractions Learning Goals/Outcomes Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to: Represent equivalent fractions (4.2b) Given a model, write fraction equivalents (4.3d) Determine common multiples and factors, including least common multiple and greatest common factor (4.5a) Add and subtract fractions having like and unlike denominators that are limited to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and simplify the resulting fractions, using common multiples and factors (4.5b) Mathematics Standards of Learning for Virginia Public Schools February 20091

Learning Resources Required Resources Everyday Math Text, University of Chicago; Grade 4, Unit 7; Lesson 7.1, 7.5, 7.6, 7.7, 7.9 National Library of Virtual Manipulatives Additional Resources Hillen, Judith. Fabulous Fractions, Black Wholes and Bright Parts, pp 5-15 Khan Academy, Equivalent Fractions Math to Know, A Mathematics Handbook, Fractions BrainPop video, Equivalent Fractions Screencast apps: Educreations or Screenchomp; Ipad app: Pattern Blocks by Brainingcamp

Learning Activities Activities for This Lesson Match pictures of addition to algorithm Change addition problems to same size manipulatives Create screencast to demonstrate sum of fractions Write entries in Fraction Learning log Write a recipe to explain process of adding two fractions Form adapted from Smith, R. M. Conquering the Content. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2008.

Discussion Questions Why cant we use the algorithm when adding fractions without changing to common denominators? How many different ways can we write a common fraction? Which is the easiest and why? Which is your preferred method of finding the sum of two fractions, using manipulatives to change to the same size pieces or using the algorithm?

Self-Assessment Check your understanding Can you show how to find common denominators of two fractions and add them? Can you explain what the least common multiple means and how to find it? Do you know how to change the sum of two fractions to lowest terms?

Lesson Evaluation: Graded Assessments Entries into Fraction Learning Log Homework assignment Project checklist Screencast Quiz and written recipe

References:
1Virginia

Department of Education, Standard of Learning Curriculum Framework, Grade 4, February 2009

2National 3Hillen,

Council of Teachers of Mathematics, curriculum standards 2000

Judith. Fabulous Fractions. Ed. Betty Cordel. Fresno, CA: AIMS Education Foundation, 2000. Print. McCallum, William. Ed. "Fractions Progression Module." Illustrative Math. Institute for Mathematics and Education, 2011. Web. 2 February 2014. http://www.illustrativemathematics.org/4 Cavanagh, Mary. Math to Know: A Mathematics Handbook. Wilmington, MA: Great Source Education Group Inc, 2000. Print Form adapted from Smith, R. M. Conquering the Content. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2008.