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PlayOwl

Mathematics · Grade 3

Equivalent Fractions and Comparisons

Building on fractions as numbers on a line, learners discover that different fractions can name the same amount (1/2 = 2/4 = 4/8), write whole numbers as fractions (4/4 = 1, 3 = 3/1), and compare fractions that share a numerator or a denominator by reasoning about the size of the parts. A pizza puzzle shows why comparisons only make sense for the same whole.

  • 4 lessons
  • About 80 minutes
  • Equivalence and comparison check: 8 questions
  • Ways to answer: fill in the blanks, choose an answer, type a fraction, place on a number line, put in order and shade a shape
See plans Included with Family, Teacher and School plans. Open in PlayOwl

What learners will discover

  • Explain that equivalent fractions are the same size and the same point on a number line, and generate simple equivalent fractions such as 1/2 = 2/4 and 2/3 = 4/6.
  • Write whole numbers as fractions and recognise fractions equal to whole numbers (4/4 = 1, 3 = 3/1, 6/3 = 2).
  • Compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator, record with >, = or <, and justify with a model.
  • Explain that fraction comparisons are only valid when both fractions refer to the same whole.

Lessons

  1. Same size, same point 6 steps3 practiceabout 22 min
  2. Whole numbers as fractions 5 steps3 practiceabout 18 min
  3. Compare fractions 5 steps3 practiceabout 22 min
  4. The same whole matters 5 steps2 practiceabout 18 min
  5. Equivalence and comparison check 8 questions at the end

Keep exploring

Games to practice with

  • Number-Line HopHelp the frog hop to the right number — from counting to negative fractions.
  • Paint by AnswersSolve each space, dip your brush and watch a picture come to life.
  • Place-Value WorkshopBuild numbers with rods and cubes — and trade ten ones for a ten.

More 3rd grade math

Guide for grown-ups