MPM1D1 - Day 8 Fractions and Proportions

We started with this Open Middle Problem:

The idea is to fill the squares using only the digits from 1 to 9, at most one time each. This was fairly easy for the class. Somebody asked if they were allowed to have improper fractions. Some groups drew pictures, while others just worked with the numbers.

Since the students were so quick to solve the first one we moved onto this one:

Some groups started with pictures but realized that it was tough to tell the difference between 4/9 and 5/11 when they were roughly drawn on the board. Most groups eventually came to the conclusion that they needed a good way to compare the fractions. Some discussed common denominators but most decided to convert the fractions to decimals or percents.

We then talked about equivalent fractions, mixed numbers and improper fractions. I mentioned that at some point we'd have to go over performing operations with fractions. Lot of them were keen to do it right then, so we did talk about it.

Next up was Fast Clapper. All but two of my students were pretty excited to be clapping and counting. They found unit rates and solved proportions by considering them equivalent fractions. I was hoping to do Smart Car Smash but we were running out of time. Instead I handed back the mastery test from yesterday (overall the results were quite good) and then I handed out a page on equivalent fractions, mixed numbers, improper fractions and multiplying and dividing integers. We'll redo the master test tomorrow.