Understanding Maths: Fractions
on Goodreads (5)
What’s inside...
Understanding Maths is a series of topic-based study books for Key Stage 2, providing rigorous practice of key subject areas. Fractions covers the following areas: comparing and ordering fractions, common denominators, simplifying fractions, equivalent fractions, mixed numbers and improper fractions.
Why read this book
- Simplifies fractions through engaging stories and characters.
- Enhances mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Supports curriculum with age-appropriate content.
- Boosts confidence in understanding complex mathematical concepts.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think would happen if we divided this pizza into equal parts? How many pieces would each person get?
Can you think of a time when you used fractions in real life?
If you had half of a chocolate bar and your friend had a quarter, who would have more and why?
How do you think understanding fractions helps us in our daily lives?
What are some fun ways you can think of that would involve using fractions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate fractions to everyday activities to make the concept more tangible. Ask them to visualize dividing favorite foods or sharing toys. Compliment their efforts to understand and apply fractions, fostering a positive learning environment. Use real objects to physically demonstrate fractions, enhancing their grasp of the book’s themes. Finally, involve the whole family in activities that require fractions, emphasizing that math is both fun and useful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Building a strong foundation in fractions
Explanation: Through engaging examples and interactive puzzles, 'Understanding Maths: Fractions' simplifies complex concepts making them accessible and enjoyable.
Real-World Application: Children can use their understanding of fractions in daily activities like cooking, dividing snacks, or understanding time.
Example Lesson: Enhancing problem-solving skills
Explanation: The book presents various fraction problems that require logical thinking and application of mathematical concepts, fostering critical thinking.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach real-life problems systematically, enhancing their ability to think critically and solve problems efficiently.
Example Lesson: Promoting perseverance
Explanation: As children work through the fraction challenges, they encounter difficulties that encourage them to keep trying until they find a solution.
Real-World Application: This lesson instills resilience, teaching children to persist and work through challenges they encounter in school or daily activities.
Example Lesson: Encouraging mathematical curiosity and confidence
Explanation: The clear and simple explanations demystify fractions, making children more curious about math and confident in their abilities.
Real-World Application: This curiosity and confidence can lead to a more profound interest in math, potentially impacting their academic choices and success in the future.
Example Lesson: Improving communication and collaboration skills
Explanation: Some activities in the book are designed to be completed with peers or family, promoting discussion and team effort.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express their thoughts and collaborate with others, skills that are essential in all areas of life.