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Fractions
One-to-one interviews provide powerful insights and clear focus for the teaching of fractions in the middle years
This article explains the different ways in which fractions are used, and the insights gained through one-to-one task-based interviews with students. The five fraction constructs of part-whole, measure, operator, division and ratio are explained. Practical advice for improving students’ understanding of fractions is given.
tdt_F_clarke1.pdf 956.16 kB
Fractions as division: The forgotten notion?
This article explains how a particular activity helps both teachers and students develop an understanding of fractions as meaning division. Participants in the task gradually make the connection between sharing division and fraction notation, and realise that this knowledge provides an effective problem solving strategy.
tdt_F_clarke2.pdf 1.06 MB
Developing an understanding of the size of fractions
This article explores students' thinking about what fractions mean, and presents some of the common difficulties and misconceptions. The value of teaching for deeper understanding is made apparent.
tdt_F_gould1.pdf 1.80 MB
Measurement matters: Fraction number lines and length concepts are related
This article explores the connections between the measurement of length, number lines and fractions. The strong links between length concepts and the number line can be utilised by teachers to improve student understanding of fractions as measures, and correct common misconception about number lines.
tdt_F_mitchell1.pdf 902.78 kB
Modelling proportional thinking with twos and threes
This article illustrates the role that understanding ratio can play in improving numeracy skills. A range of strategies for modelling ratio and percentage problems, and deepening proportional reason, is discussed.
tdt_F_tabart1.pdf 1.64 MB
Developing fraction sense using digital learning objects
This article describes some of the components of 'fraction sense' and makes some suggestions about how to strengthen children's understanding of fractions. The use of both digital learning objects and a range of practical tasks for promoting fraction sense are described.
tdt_F_way1.pdf 1.76 MB
Assessing students’ understanding of equivalence
This article identifies the difficulties students have with equivalent fractions and presents four tasks that can be used by teachers to assess student understanding.
tdt_F_wong1.pdf 846.68 kB
