Year 5 - Maths
Use the relationship between the numerator and denominator in equivalent fractions to solve problems
Comparing fractions using equivalence and decimals
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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 use representations to describe and compare two fractions. They will explain the relationship within families of equivalent fractions and use their knowledge of common equivalents to compare fractions with decimals.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to use the relationship between the numerator and denominator in equivalent fractions to solve problems.
Key Notes
- If the multiplicative relationship between the numerator and denominator is the same, the fractions will be equivalent
- If a fraction is equivalent to a half, the numerator will be half the value of the denominator
- If a fraction is equivalent to fifth, the denominator will be 5 times the value of the numerator
Vocabulary To Learn
- Numerator: The numerator is the top number in a fraction and shows how many parts we have.
- Denominator: The denominator is the bottom number in a fraction and shows how many equal parts the whole has been divided into.
- Equivalent fraction: Equivalent fractions are fractions which have the same value, even though they may look different.
- Proportion: The proportion of a number, shape or group of objects is a part of the whole.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Children need to understand that equivalent fractions must be part of the same whole and that they can be represented as parts of a whole or as a number with a unique position on the number line.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
If the multiplicative relationship between the numerator and denominator is the same, the fractions will be equivalent. If a fraction is equivalent to a half, the numerator will be half the value of the denominator.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Numerator'
The numerator is the top number in a fraction and shows how many parts we have. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Children need to understand that equivalent fractions must be part of the same whole and that they can be represented as parts of a whole or as a number with a unique position on the number line. Correction: Use the stem sentences to draw attention to how we describe equivalence and use representations to support this. Be clear about when the representation is showing a part of a whole and when it is labelling a point on a number line.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Explain and represent how to divide 1 into different numbers of equal parts Study Guide
- Explain the relationship between numerators and denominators across equivalent fractions Study Guide
- Explain the relationship between numerators and denominators in equivalent fractions Study Guide
- Explain the relationship within families of equivalent fractions Study Guide
- Identify and describe patterns in the number system Study Guide
- Recall common fraction-decimal equivalents Study Guide
- Solve problems using fraction-decimal equivalents Study Guide
- Use knowledge of common equivalents to compare fractions and decimals Study Guide
- Use representations to describe and compare fractions Study Guide
- Use representations to describe and compare two fractions Study Guide
- Use representations to describe and compare two fractions in a continuous context Study Guide
- Use the language of equivalent fractions correctly Study Guide
- Use the relationship between the numerator and denominator to simplify fractions Study Guide
- Use understanding of equivalent fractions to solve problems Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 5 Maths guide library.