Using the measure model

The measure construct of fractions requires some different thinking about fractions than the commonly used part-whole idea. Watch the video Fractions as Measures.

You can download the Fractions as Measures video transcript.

Using the measure model for fractions supports understanding of several important aspects of fractions.

• Thinking of a fraction as a number is a critical component of developing a sense of the size of a fraction in relation to other fractions.
• Using linear models as a tool for exploring equivalent fractions utilises the concept of subdividing a fraction (as a unit of measure) into smaller units.

Using the number line model supports the process of adding and subtracting fractions, by counting forward or back along the number line.