Teaching Resource
Common Construction - Finding Common Denominators
A teacher-facilitated activity focused on using equivalent fractions to find common denominators.
Students use concrete and pictorial models to decompose improper fractions and mixed numbers. This allows them to be able to rely on understanding the meaning of fractions for conversions rather than relying on processes that can easily become confused.
8 problems including models
Use during guided math, as a teacher-facilitated activity with the whole class, during tutoring or intervention, with small groups, or in centers.
This activity includes clear and concise teacher directions, an example with questioning, an answer key, and conversation starters that give students what they need to have meaningful academic discussions.
Common Core Curriculum alignment
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.A.1
Explain why a fraction a/b is equivalent to a fraction (n × a)/(n × b) by using visual fraction models, with attention to how the number and size of the parts differ even though the two fractions themselves are the same size. Use this principle to ...
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.A.1
Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators (including mixed numbers) by replacing given fractions with equivalent fractions in such a way as to produce an equivalent sum or difference of fractions with like denominators. For example, 2/3 + 5...

TeachTransform creates fun math activities that get students involved in real math. We bring decades of education experience to the task, and we believe that students learn best when teachers and students are having fun.
Find more resources for these topics
MathematicsFractions, Decimals, and PercentagesNumbersNumber and OperationsFractional OperationsWorksheetsTask CardsMath Center ActivitiesGuided Math ActivitiesPracticeSmall GroupEquivalent Fractions
Comments & Reviews
Write a review to help other teachers and parents like yourself. If you would like to request a change (Changes & Updates) to this resource, or report an error, simply select the corresponding tab above.
Request a change
Would you like something changed or customized on this resource? While our team makes every effort to complete change requests, we can't guarantee that every change will be completed.
You must be logged in to request a change. Sign up now!
Report an Error
You must be logged in to report an error. Sign up now!
Help
Are you having trouble downloading or viewing this resource? Please try the following steps:
- Check that you are logged in to your account
- Check that you have a paid subscription
- Check that you have installed Adobe Reader (download here)
If you are still having difficulty, please visit the Teach Starter Help Desk or contact us.
Contact us