Free Fracions Lesson Plan for 3rd Grade Students

Topic: Comparing Fractions

Objectives & Outcomes

• By the end of this lesson, students will be able to understand and compare fractions by using their notation, visual representation, and properties.

Materials

• Fraction strips or other materials for visually representing fractions (such as small blocks or Legos)
• Whiteboard and markers

Warm-up

• Review the concept of fractions and their notation (e.g. 1/4, 1/2, 3/4)
• Ask students to give examples of fractions they have seen before, and write them on the board
• Have students draw a visual representation of a fraction using fraction strips or other materials, and explain how the parts of the fraction represent a part of the whole

Direct Instruction

• Introduce the concept of fractions as parts of a whole
• Show students several different fractions, such as 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, and have them identify which fraction is smaller and which is larger
• Have students sort the fractions into two piles, one for smaller fractions and one for larger fractions
• Explain that the smaller fraction represents a smaller part of the whole, and the larger fraction represents a larger part of the whole
• Have students complete the activity sheet, identifying and coloring in smaller and larger fractions as instructed

Guided Practice

• Have students work in pairs to complete the fraction comparison activity
• Walk around the room and assist students as needed

Independent Practice

• Have students use the blank cards to create their own fraction comparison cards
• Encourage students to be creative and use their own ideas to come up with comparisons

Closure

• Review the steps for comparing fractions and the terminology used to do so
• Have students share any interesting or funny fraction comparisons they created

Assessment

• Observe students during independent practice and provide feedback on their ability to correctly-identify and explain fraction comparisons.