David Knapp: Multiplying Fractions

Lesson: Representation
Materials:
Display: objective, multiplication definition/reminder
Problem prompts
Dry erase sleeves/markers/eraser per student or pair
Exit pass paper
Colored Markers
Vocabulary:
Background knowledge: fraction, numerator, denominator, multiplication, whole number
New: representation (connections, model, reason, justify)
Standards & Lesson objective(s):
5. NF.B.4

I can multiply fractions.

5.NF.B.6

I can represent word problems involving multiplication of fraction.

I can solve real world problems involving multiplication of fractions.
Depth of Knowledge (DOK): Level 2 (Skill/concept) Level 3 (Strategic Reasoning)
Differentiation strategies to meet diverse learner needs:
Struggling: pair with peer, additional manipulatives (unit blocks vs paper/markers), allow verbal vs written
response, teacher support via guided questioning
Enrichment: represent solution in an atypical/creative way different from those given- explain
thinking, create an original rubric to explain the process of multiplying fractions
Anticipatory Set/Energizer/ENGAGEMENT
Present the big question i.e. target prompt
Introduce multiplication rule/definition
Reference objective: not just to answer - but to represent, present, explain thinking
EXPLORATION
Given dry erase materials and prompt(s), ask students to create
a model (representation) of a Practice PROBLEM
EXPLANATION
Have students share questions, models, describe thinking, look at alternatives presented by peers, test models
to see if they work discover errors if needed, etc. of the PRACTICE problem(s)
ELABORATION/APPLY
Students create a representation of the target problem/solution, explain their thinking
to peer(s) and present to whole group (again explain/justify) as they share out
EVALUATION
Exit Pass sheet representation of target problem; (a) model of problem and
(b) model of solution
CLOSURE
What is multiplication
Does representing a problem in a variety of ways help you understand the process beneath the solution...
1

David Knapp: Multiplying Fractions

Student Handouts:

David Knapp: Multiplying Fractions

David Knapp: Multiplying Fractions

David Knapp: Multiplying Fractions

Student Work Samples (grade 5)