Fraction Models: Number Line, Area, and Set
The same fraction shown three ways: a number line, an area (bar) model, and a set model. Seeing one fraction in all three forms is what makes the idea click.
Number line
Area model
Set model
How to use this chart
- Show all three models for the same fraction before moving to a new one; students who only meet the area model often think fractions are "just about pizza slices."
- Ask students to build the fraction shown in one model using the other two, on mini whiteboards or scrap paper.
- Point to the number line model whenever a worksheet asks students to compare or order fractions, it is the model that generalizes best.
Where this chart is taught
Teaching units