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Grade 4 · Mathematics · 25 minutes

Equivalent fractions

Draw two equal-sized wholes. Multiply numerator and denominator by the same number to preserve value.

Mr. S Teaches · Starter mini-lesson · elem-4-equivalent-fractions

Learning objective

Explain and practice equivalent fractions using the activity and evidence, then show the reasoning behind an answer.

Gather your materials

  • Paper and pencil
  • Counters, blocks or paper pieces
  • A ruler, clock model or grid when named in the steps

Use the items named in the teaching steps; paper models or adult-prepared photographs can replace physical equipment.

Common Core skill focus

4.NF.A.1

Use visual models to explain and generate equivalent fractions.

Read the official standard ↗

Code and grade verified 2026-11-03. This mini-lesson addresses a selected skill, not the entire standard.

Teach it step by step

  1. Draw two equal-sized wholes.
  2. Shade half of each.
  3. Partition one whole into six equal parts.
  4. Count the three shaded sixths and connect the model to multiplying by 3/3.

Watch, notice, discuss

Video choices for this lesson

2 choices

Preview a video, then choose what fits your learners. “Show to class” opens a larger view; use the player’s play and full-screen controls when you’re ready.

Teacher preview needed. Check the language, level and length before showing. YouTube may show ads or related videos.

After watching

Use matching wholes to show two equivalent fractions. What changed, and what stayed equal?

An external player loads only after you choose Preview or Show to class. Playback connects to YouTube. Videos belong to their creators; availability and embedding can change.

Make the thinking visible

Example to work through together

1/2 = 3/6 because each half is split into three sixths without changing the shaded area.

Try the starter activity

Draw equal wholes showing 1/2 and 3/6.

Student practice

Model 2/3 and 4/6 using equal-sized wholes and explain their equality.

Quick check for understanding

Why are these fractions equal?

Sample answer and teacher guidance

Sample answer: They cover the same amount of equal-sized wholes.

Listen or look for: Both shade the same amount; each third was split into two sixths.

Invite the learner to explain, demonstrate, draw or dictate their reasoning. Revisit a teaching step when the explanation is unclear.

Make it work for your learner

A little more support

Use fraction strips with matching whole lengths.

An additional challenge

Explain why multiplying only the numerator changes the fraction.