M2.4.6 For the adult
Same amount, different names
Is 2/4 more than 1/2, since the numbers are bigger?
What this chapter teaches
Different fractions can name the same amount: one half, two quarters and four eighths are equal. Cutting every part the same way changes both numbers and leaves the amount the same. A bigger number on the bottom does not mean more.
Three questions to ask
There is no one right wording. Listen for the idea.
- How could you show that one half and two quarters are the same amount?
- What happens to the top and bottom numbers when you cut every part in two?
- Why is two quarters not more than one half, even though 2 and 4 are bigger numbers?
After the chapter, the learner can
- Show that two fractions name the same amount
- Find a fraction equal to 1/2, 1/3 or 3/4
- Explain why 2/4 is not more than 1/2
What they copy into their notebook
Different fractions can name the same amount. 1/2, 2/4 and 4/8 are equal. Cut every part in two. The top and the bottom both double. The amount stays the same.