Wyoming Math 4.NF.3b
The Standard
Understand a fraction a/b with a > 1 as a sum of unit fractions (1/b). Decompose a fraction into a sum of fractions with the same denominator in more than one way, recording each decomposition by an equation. Justify decompositions by using a visual fraction model.
2023 Wyoming Mathematics Content and Performance Standards · Build fractions from unit fractions by applying and extending previous understandings of operations on whole numbers (limited to denominators 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 100).
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students split a fraction into smaller fractions with the same denominator. They write more than one addition equation and show each split using a picture with equal parts.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Given 5/6, a student writes 1/6 + 4/6 and 2/6 + 3/6. They shade five of six equal parts and mark the groups that match each equation.
Common Misconceptions
- Some students add the denominators and write 1/6 + 4/6 = 5/12. Others draw unequal parts or think a fraction can be split only one way.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Draw two strips of eight equal boxes and shade seven boxes in each. Write a different addition equation for 7/8 under each strip, then mark the groups that match the addends.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give students two paper strips divided into sixths; have them shade five parts and use two colors to show a different split on each strip.
Ask, “How can the same five shaded sixths show both 1/6 + 4/6 and 2/6 + 3/6?”
Give pairs cards marked 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8; partners race to write two different sums for each card.
A pizza has five of eight slices left; draw two ways to pack the slices into two boxes and label each box's fraction.
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Printable 4.NF.3b Worksheet
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Related Standards
- 5.NF.6
Solve real-world problems involving multiplication of fractions and mixed numbers by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem.
- 5.NF.7c
Solve real-world problems involving division of unit fractions by non-zero whole numbers and division of whole numbers by unit fractions by using visual fractio...
- 5.NF.7
Extend the concept of division to divide unit fractions and whole numbers by using visual fraction models and equations.
- 6.NS.1
Interpret and compute quotients of fractions, and solve word problems involving division of fractions by fractions by using visual fraction models and equations...
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