Understanding fractions (age 7+)
Communicate with mathematical precision: use correct place-value and fraction vocabulary, specify units in measurement answers, and use notation accurately
What a learner can do afterwards
- Consistently specify units in measurement answers (e.g. '35 cm' not '35')
- Use fraction vocabulary precisely (numerator, denominator, equivalent)
- Write equations with correct notation including £/p, >, <, = and fraction symbols
The lesson
In maths, a good answer is an exact answer. If someone asks how long your pencil is, saying '18' is not enough. You need to say '18 centimetres'. The same care matters for fractions and symbols too.
Ben measures a ribbon. It is 35 centimetres long. If he just writes '35', nobody knows if he means centimetres, metres, or something else. He writes '35 cm' so his answer is exact.
When you write money, use the £ and p signs, like £2.50 or 75p. When you compare numbers, use <, >, or = so it is clear which way round the comparison goes.
Exact answers use the right units, the right fraction words, and the right symbols every time.
Watch it
Where it sits
Where this leads
Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.
8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.