Equivalent Fractions — Year 4 Lesson Plan
National Curriculum: Mathematics — Number: fractions, Year 4
Overview
Pupils learn to identify and generate equivalent fractions — fractions that represent the same amount even though they are written differently. They explore the multiplicative relationship between equivalent fractions and use this to simplify fractions and compare fractions with different denominators.
Learning Objectives
- Recognise and show families of equivalent fractions using diagrams.
- Explain the multiplicative relationship between equivalent fractions.
- Generate equivalent fractions by multiplying or dividing numerator and denominator by the same number.
- Simplify fractions to their lowest terms.
Key Vocabulary
Suggested Lesson Structure
Show fraction strips for ½, 2/4, and 4/8 side by side. Ask: are these the same size? Establish visually that they are equal before introducing formal notation.
Model how multiplying or dividing both numerator and denominator by the same number generates an equivalent fraction. Use the fraction wall to verify. Introduce simplifying as the reverse process. Show that ÷ by the HCF simplifies in one step.
Pupils complete a fraction family chain (½ = ?/4 = ?/8 = ?/12) and simplify a set of fractions. Discuss: how do you know when a fraction cannot be simplified further?
Pupils find three equivalent fractions for each given fraction, then order a set of fractions with different denominators by converting to a common denominator.
Is 6/9 equivalent to 2/3? How do you know? Pupils explain using the multiplicative relationship.
Common Misconceptions
- Adding the same number to numerator and denominator: ½ → 2/3 (incorrect). Stress that you must multiply or divide, not add.
- Thinking that simplifying changes the value of the fraction — use visual models to reinforce that the value stays the same.
Prior Knowledge
Pupils should already be able to:
- Understanding of unit fractions and non-unit fractions.
- Knowledge of multiplication and division facts.
- Ability to identify factors of a number.
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