One of the most frustrating things is trying to order fractions from least or greatest or vice versa. We use common denominators to make it easier. I tell the kids it's like comparing apples to apples (then they say "like the game?" then I say no. :) ) or oranges to oranges.
Let's say we have 3/4 and 2/8. We can either count (find the LCM) by each number and find out the easiest option is 8. So, 3/4 = 6/8 and we keep 2/8 the same.
However, it's tough for them to do that sometimes, so another method is to multiply the denominators and find equivalent fractions. So, 4 x 8 = 32, we then write 3/4 as 24/32 and 2/8 as 8/32. Doing this we can easily see that 24/32 is greater than 2/8.
Also, one of the math students, Anthony showed me a website that is really neat and I will be turning it into a "page" on the top menu soon.
Friday is a computer day, so students will be reminded/given their log in information for both my.hrw.com and xtramath.org
Until tomorrow!
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