Sharing popcorn

The following is an image of a 2 $\frac{1}{2}$ cup measuring cup with fractions labelled along the side. The smallest fraction is $\frac{1}{4}$ cup, measuring all the way up to 2 $\frac{1}{2}$ cups.

Niyah decided that they would like to make some popcorn before they have a games night.

Her friend Nate asked for $\frac{1}{3}$ of a cup of kernels.

Her friend Nigel asked for $\frac{1}{4}$ of a cup of kernels.

Her friend Rachel asked for $\frac{1}{2}$ a cup of kernels.

Her friend Justin asked for $\frac{2}{3}$ of a cup of kernels.

Niyah wanted $\frac{3}{4}$ of a cup of kernels.

Who do you think is going to have the biggest bowl of popcorn?

In this learning activity, we will compare and order fractions.

Comparing fractions

Access the following episode of Homework Zone. In this video, Teacher Troy explores an important part of a fraction: the denominator.

Let’s explore one more episode of Homework Zone. In this video, Teacher Troy discusses the numerator.

Respond to the following question in a method of your choice:

If we have the same whole, which equal part is the largest: a half, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, eighth, or tenth? Explain your answer.

What can you use to illustrate your answer?

If we have a whole that is divided into halves, and then the same whole divided into thirds, how do we figure out which fraction is larger, one half or two-thirds?

Fraction rods

The following is an image of a whole rod. The rod can be divided into three thirds or two halves.

If we take one half and compare it to two thirds, which one is bigger?

Using the greater-than ( > ) or less-than ( < ) sign, we describe this comparison.

Let’s practice! Use the fraction rods or another manipulative provided to you by your teacher (such as algebra tiles) to compare the following “Fair-share scenarios.” Express the fair-share scenarios using standard fraction notation and a greater-than ( > ) or less-than ( < ) sign.

Fair-share scenarios

• 5 sixths & 2 thirds
• 2 tenths & 1 fifth
• 3 sixths & 2 fourths
• 7 eighths & 1 tenth

Practice

Jinney is an actor who does commercials. They are given two different offers from two different agencies that they must choose to represent them. The agency takes a certain fraction of what Jinney is paid when they finish a commercial.

Evaluate each offer and advise Jinney which one is better based on more money she will earn (less money taken away by her agency).

Explain and use a diagram or model, or audio record a detailed description of your model. Use the greater-than ( > ) or less-than ( < ) sign.

• Agency 1: The agency keeps two eighths and Jinney keeps three fourths.
• Agency 2: The agency keeps one sixth and Jinney keeps five sixths.

Reflection

As you read through these descriptions, which sentence best describes how you are feeling about your understanding of this learning activity? Press the button that is beside this sentence.

Now, record your ideas using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.