Mathematics
Grade 3
15 min
Match unit fractions to models
Match unit fractions to models
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1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Define a unit fraction as one equal part of a whole.
Identify the numerator and denominator in a unit fraction.
Recognize that fractions require a whole to be divided into equal parts.
Match a given unit fraction, such as 1/4, to its correct visual model.
Identify the unit fraction represented by a given visual model (e.g., area models and number lines).
Explain why a model does or does not represent a specific unit fraction, focusing on the concept of equal parts.
Have you ever shared a pizza with friends? 🍕 How do you make sure everyone gets a fair slice?
In this lesson, we will learn about special fractions called 'unit fractions,' which represent one fair share. We will practice matching these fractions to pictures, like slices of a pie or...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
FractionA number that shows a part of a whole or a part of a group.1/2 is a fraction that means one part out of two equal parts.
WholeThe entire object or group that is being divided into parts.A whole pizza before it is sliced, or a whole candy bar.
Equal PartsParts of a whole that are exactly the same size. This is a very important rule for fractions!A candy bar broken into four equal squares so four friends can each have the same amount.
Unit FractionA fraction where the top number (numerator) is always 1. It represents one single equal part of a whole.1/6 is a unit fraction. It means one part of a whole that is split into six equal parts.
NumeratorThe top number in a fraction. In a unit fraction, it tells us that we are counting just one part.In the fraction 1/4,...
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Core Formulas
Structure of a Unit Fraction
1/b
A unit fraction always has a 1 in the numerator. The denominator, 'b', tells you the total number of equal parts in the whole. The denominator can be any whole number except zero.
The Denominator's Job
Denominator = Total Equal Parts
When matching a fraction to a model, first look at the denominator. This number tells you how many total equal parts the shape should be divided into.
The Numerator's Job
Numerator = Shaded or Counted Parts
In a unit fraction, the numerator is always 1. This means you should look for a model where exactly one of the equal parts is shaded or identified.
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Challenging
This shaded square represents 1/4 of a whole rectangle. [Image of a single small square]. Which of the options below shows the whole rectangle?
A.[Image of two of the small squares placed side-by-side]
B.[Image of four of the small squares placed in a row to form a long rectangle]
C.[Image of three of the small squares placed in a row]
D.[Image of one small square by itself]
Challenging
Look at the two models. Model X is a large circle showing 1/2. Model Y is a small circle showing 1/3. [Image of a large circle with 1/2 shaded next to a small circle with 1/3 shaded]. Which statement is true about the shaded parts?
A.The shaded part of Model X is smaller than the shaded part of Model Y.
B.The shaded part of Model X is equal to the shaded part of Model Y.
C.The shaded part of Model X is larger than the shaded part of Model Y.
D.We cannot compare the shaded parts because the wholes are different sizes.
Challenging
The first model shows 1/2. [Image of a rectangle split into 2 equal parts, 1 shaded]. Which of the following models shows a unit fraction that is SMALLER than 1/2?
A.[Image of the same size rectangle split into 4 equal parts, 1 shaded]
B.[Image of the same size rectangle split into 2 equal parts, 1 shaded]
C.[Image of the same size rectangle split into 3 equal parts, 2 shaded]
D.[Image of the same size rectangle, fully shaded]
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