Year 3 - Maths
Use fraction notation to describe an equal part of the whole
Unit fractions as part of a whole
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will represent unit fractions in different ways, identifying the whole, the number of equal parts and the size of each part as a unit fraction, including tenths.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to use fraction notation to describe an equal part of the whole.
Key Notes
- The whole has been divided (division bar).
- The whole has been divided into __ equal parts (denominator).
- One of the parts has been shaded (numerator).
Vocabulary To Learn
- Fraction: A fraction shows us how many equal parts in a whole.
- Division bar: The division bar is the horizontal line separating the two values in a fraction.
- Denominator: A denominator is the bottom number in a fraction. It shows how many parts a whole has been divided into.
- Numerator: A numerator is the top number in a fraction. It shows how many parts we have.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Children will often think that the denominator is just how many parts a whole has been divided into and forget that the parts must be equal.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
The whole has been divided (division bar). The whole has been divided into __ equal parts (denominator).
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Fraction'
A fraction shows us how many equal parts in a whole. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Children will often think that the denominator is just how many parts a whole has been divided into and forget that the parts must be equal. Correction: If some children are struggling with this then get them to spot examples and non-examples drawn quickly on whiteboards. You can also make connections with sharing food with siblings/friends fairly. Some might endure 'one cuts, one chooses' at home.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Construct a whole when given a part and the number of parts Study Guide
- Explain the size of a part in relation to the whole Study Guide
- Explain why a part can only be defined in relation to a whole Study Guide
- Identify a whole and the parts that make it up Study Guide
- Identify equal parts when they do not look the same Study Guide
- Identify how many equal parts a whole has been divided into Study Guide
- Identify the number of equal or unequal parts in a whole Study Guide
- Represent unit fractions in different ways Study Guide
- Solve problems involving identifying equal parts and the whole Study Guide
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