This is a level 3 number activity from the Figure It Out series. It relates to Stage 6 of the Number Framework.
A PDF of the student activity is included.
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find fractions of dollar amounts
FIO, Level 2-3, Number, Job Sharing, page 24
A calculator
A classmate
This activity prepares students for decimals and builds on the circle activities from page 17.
Students may solve the sharing problems in a variety of ways. Encourage them to reason efficiently. In question 1a, a student might use 100 counters and divide these into equal subsets to find how much each child receives. Although this is effective in getting the solution, it is cumbersome. Another method might be to find equal amounts that add to the total amount. For example, Rob and Sue will get 50 cents each because 50 + 50 = 100. The most efficient method is to use division, for
example, 100 ÷ 2 = 50.
In question 1d, when three people share $2, students should realise that 65 cents is the closest possible solution. This will leave 5 cents over.
Writing the amounts in money form is useful preparation for decimals. For example, one half of a dollar is 50 cents, which can be written as $0.50.
Answers to Activity
1. a. 50c each
b. $1 each
c. 60c each
d. 65c each and 5c left over
2. Group d (Raj, Scott, and Ismael) couldn’t share their money equally.
3. Answers will vary.
4. The actual coins drawn could vary, but the amount must equal those drawn here:
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