3rd Grade Math Lesson

Baker's Fraction Challenge: Comparing Fractions with Area Models

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3rd GradeThin-SlicingCCSS.3.NF.A.3d50 min

Learning Objective

Students will compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator by reasoning about piece size and using labeled fraction bar diagrams, recording comparisons with <, >, or = symbols.

Lesson Overview

Students progress from comparing same-denominator fractions using fraction bar area models to comparing same-numerator fractions by reasoning that larger denominators create smaller pieces, set in a bakery recipe context.

Materials

Vertical whiteboards or chart paper
Dry-erase markers (multiple colors)
Printed fraction bar reference strips (denominators 2, 3, 4, 6, 8)
Random grouping tool
Rulers or straight edges

Scaffolded Task Progression

1Task 1

The bakery has one full tray of cookie dough. Chef Rosa uses

\frac{2}{6}

of the tray. Chef Marco uses

\frac{4}{6}

of the tray.

Draw a fraction bar for each chef. Shade the correct number of parts. Then write >, <, or = to compare:

\frac{2}{6} ◯ \frac{4}{6}

[ Interactive graph / diagram — available in the full lesson ]

2Task 2

Now the chefs split a tray of brownie batter. Chef Rosa uses

\frac{4}{6}

of the tray. Chef Marco uses

\frac{5}{6}

of the tray.

Draw fraction bars and compare:

\frac{4}{6} ◯ \frac{5}{6}

Finish this sentence on your board: *'Because the denominators are the same, I compare the ___ and the fraction with the ___ numerator is greater.'*

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