Teaching Fractions

Teaching Fractions

Peter has created a set of ten videos to help you understand how students learn fractions. Peter discusses links to the curriculum and shares great activity ideas.

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Teaching Fractions
  • 1. Fractions – equal parts of a whole (levels 2 and 3)

    Peter Sullivan introduces a series on fractions, focusing on halves and quarters. He explains that fractions represent equal parts of a whole and connects these concepts using relatable images, like dividing oranges. Students engage in activities that encourage critical thinking, such as drawing ...

  • 2. Fractions as division (halves and quarters) (levels 3 and 4)

    Peter Sullivan explains the concept of fractions in junior and middle primary schools. He defines fractions as equal parts of a whole and discusses how division relates to them. Examples include sharing items like eggs and chocolate bars, illustrating the importance of understanding these concept...

  • 3. Linear models of fractions (halves and quarters) (levels 2,3 and 4)

    Peter Sullivan introduces methods for teaching fractions by conceptualizing them as equal parts of a whole, results of division, and points on a number line. He discusses using fraction walls and linear models, focusing on halves and quarters for early education. Engaging students through various...

  • 4. Fractions as part of a quantity (levels 3,4 and 5)

    Peter Sullivan introduces effective methods for teaching fractions, focusing on making abstract concepts accessible. He highlights the use of visual aids and interactive materials, such as cuisienaire rods, to explain unit fractions, equivalent fractions, and mixed numbers. Practical questions in...

  • 5. Linear models of fractions (fifths and tenths) (levels 4 and 5)

    Peter Sullivan teaches fractions for levels four and five, focusing on equal parts of a whole and fractions as points on a number line. He discusses linear models, connections to decimals and percentages, and the importance of unit fractions. Visual aids like a fraction wall are suggested to enha...

  • 6. Counting in tenths and fifths (levels 4 and 5)

    Peter Sullivan introduces effective methods for teaching fractions, focusing on equal parts, division, and number line representation. The curriculum encourages counting by fractions and finding equivalents. Techniques like choral counting aid in understanding conversions. Students participate in...

  • 7. Equivalent fractions (levels 5 and 6)

    Peter Sullivan teaches upper primary students about fractions, focusing on equal parts and equivalents. The content emphasizes comparing, ordering, and solving fraction problems using manipulatives like pattern blocks. Students learn to visualize fractions through shapes and explore values. The s...

  • 8. Fraction word problems (levels 4, 5 and 6)

    Peter Sullivan teaches upper primary students about fractions, focusing on problem-solving and understanding. Students learn to create equivalent fractions and convert them to decimals, exploring multiple solutions. The video includes examples that help students read and interpret fraction-relate...

  • 9. Operating with fractions (levels 5 and 6)

    Peter Sullivan highlights the challenges of teaching fractions and the importance of real-world applications. He shares various methods for teaching addition and subtraction of fractions, including additive and unitary approaches. Using relatable examples like recipes, he emphasises intuitive und...

  • 10. Percentage increase and decrease (level 6)

    Peter Sullivan teaches upper primary students about fractions and percentages, focusing on understanding percentages as parts of a whole. He uses practical examples and emphasizes flexible thinking over strict rules. Various exercises help students learn about percentage increases and decreases t...