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Equivalent- Two fractions represent the same number, they are equal.
Multiplying Fractions
Multiplying Fractions
Learning to multiply fractions comes after practice with recognizing equivalent fractions. 3/4 of a rod is the same as 15/20. This is represented in the math drawing to the left. You are multiplying the numerator by 5 as well as the denominator by 5.
IMAGEs-Beckmann, S. (2022). Mathematics for elementary and middle school teachers: With activities (6th ed.). Pearson Education, Inc.
Common Denominator- A shared denominator amongst multiple fractions.
Equivalent fractions are used to add fractions or compare them. "When we give fractions common denominators, we describe the fractions in terms of parts of the same size in relation to the same whole." (Beckman, 2022). It was described best in Mathematics for Elementary and Middle School Teachers; The fractions 2/3 and 3/5 are in terms of thirds and fifths, respectively. We can write these two fractions with the common denominator 3x5+15.
In the image above you can see that when you give 2/3 and 3/5 the common denominator of 15, you then partition both into fifteenths. Both fractions are then broken up and described into the same size.
Beckmann, S. (2022). Mathematics for elementary and middle school teachers: With activities (6th ed.). Pearson Education, Inc.
Simplest Form- A fraction is in it's lowest terms if there is no other whole number aside from 1 that divides both A and B evenly.
Simplify- taking an equivalent fraction by dividing the numerator and denominator by the same number.
Working with equivalent fractions is a rather large unit and takes a lot of time, as there are a lot of concepts. In my future classroom I'd like to be prepared and have enough time to ensure students have a solid understanding before moving on. Equivalent fractions, along with many math concepts, are best taught with math manipulatives but working with common denominators and simplest form is best with math drawings. For example 18/24 simplified to 3/4 is best understood in a math drawing when first learning as it's not always easy to visualize.
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