Equivalent fractions

In this lesson, we will learn:

• How to find equivalent fractions using models
• How to find equivalent fractions using multiplication (and division)
• How to find fractions in lowest terms (simplest form)

Notes:

• Equivalent fractions are fractions with the same value even though they look different (top and bottoms are not the same numbers)
• This can be proven by showing fraction models
• By using the same whole shape and splitting into different numbers of equal parts, all the shape models have the same proportion of shaded area:

• By lining up number lines on top of each other, all the number line models show the dot representing the fractions on the same point along the line

• Equivalent fractions have the same value because they take the same fraction (proportion) and multiply BOTH the top and bottom by the same number; the value does not change

• Fractions in lowest terms (or simplest form) are the smallest equivalent fraction
• Divide the top and bottom by the same common factor until you cant anymore