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Maths · Years 3-4
How can I teach fractions as equal parts of a whole?
Establish the whole, divide it into equal parts and identify how many parts are selected. Equal-sized wholes are essential when comparing the fraction bars in this activity.
Download: Equal parts and fractions
A4 PDF · 2 pages · free · no sign-up
Print page 1 for the activity and keep page 2 for teaching notes and answers or suggested responses.
Use A4 paper at 100% or Actual size. Choose by the task and your class; the suggested range is a starting point, not a curriculum-alignment claim.
How to use this resource
- Point out the whole bar and count every equal part.
- Shade the requested number of parts and name the fraction.
- Compare bars by discussing both the number and size of the parts.
Make it easier or add challenge
More support
Fold paper to make halves and quarters before using the printed bars.
More challenge
Find two equivalent shaded amounts on equal-sized bars and explain the relationship.
What to look for
Can the child explain that the denominator counts all equal parts? Check that they compare equal wholes rather than denominators alone.
Teacher answers and suggested responses
1. 1/2, with 1 section shaded.
2. 3/4, with 3 sections shaded.
3. 2/3, with 2 sections shaded.
4. 4/6, with 4 sections shaded.
5. 1/2 is greater for equal-sized wholes. A half contains two quarters.
6. Yes. Dividing each third into two equal parts makes sixths, so 2/3 = 4/6.
A useful next step
Printing, access and sharing
Allow drawing, discussion, practical materials or usual communication tools where they support the learning aim. Use separate paper if a child needs more writing or drawing space.
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