Maths this week

This week we have been working on equivalent fractions using both tape diagrams and an area model. This has not only helped students to understand the concept of equivalent fractions, but also to understand addition and subtraction of fractions as joining and separating parts referring to the same whole.

It was a tricky time for students, as they were asked at times to explain their understanding using words, a visual model, as well as using number sentences. However, the end result was that a lot of misunderstandings were clarified and students feel that they have a better understanding of the important concepts.

Last week we also spent time creating more designs to reveal rotational symmetry and were able to confidently say what the order of rotation was, as well as the angle of rotation. Using the concept of a full rotation has supported student learning and enabled them to understand symmetry more easily. It also helped to review their knowledge of fractions before we began that unit. The game that was sent home last week is a good way for students to practice and review their understanding of attributes of shapes and should be played at home from time to time.

Here some pictures of their work this week as well as last week.

Rotational Symmetry Designs

Equivalent Fractions