Lesson Plan on Adding and Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators

Lesson Title:Adding and Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators

Lesson Objective: Students will be able to demonstrate understanding of adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators by solving problems and explaining their thinking.

Materials:

  • Fraction strips
  • Fraction circles
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Fraction worksheet
  • Fraction manipulative (optional)
  • LCD (Least common denominator) chart
  • Introduction (5 minutes): Begin the lesson by reviewing what a fraction is and the parts of a fraction (numerator and denominator). Explain to students that today they will be learning about adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators.

    Direct Instruction (15 minutes): Using the whiteboard, demonstrate how to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators. For example, show students how to add 2/3 + 1/4 and how to subtract 3/5 – 2/4. Use different visual aids such as fraction strip and circles to make the concept clear. Also, explain the concept of LCD (Least common denominator) and how it can be used to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators.

    Guided Practice (10 minutes): Have students work in pairs to solve problems on the whiteboard. Provide them with a set of problems that have unlike denominators. As they work, circulate the room to provide support and guidance as needed.

    Independent Practice (20 minutes): Provide students with a worksheet that includes a variety of problems that require them to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators. Encourage them to use fraction manipulative and LCD chart to help them visualize the problem. Have them work independently and check their answers with a partner.

    Closure (5 minutes): Ask students to share their answers and have them explain their thinking. Review any misconceptions and provide additional support as needed.

    Assessment: The worksheet completed during independent practice will be collected and used to assess student understanding of adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators.

    Note: It’s important to point out that the concept of adding and subtracting with unlike denominators should be taught after students have a good understanding of the concept of fractions and equivalent fractions. It’s also important to use different visual aids and manipulatives to help students understand and visualize the concept. It’s also important to give ample practice problems with different denominators to help them master the concept. Also, it’s important to stress the importance of finding the least common denominator when adding and subtracting unlike denominators. It’s also important to give ample practice problems with different denominators to help them master the concept.