L5 Unit Fractions of a Set

This Year 3 fractions lesson focuses on finding unit fractions of sets of objects, building on pupils’ prior learning from Year 2. Designed to support early understanding of fractions, the lesson helps children develop a clear concept of fractions as equal parts of a whole. The lesson begins with a structured recap of key fraction vocabulary, including numerator, denominator, and equal parts, before introducing the term unit fraction. Children explore what makes a fraction a unit fraction and identify unit fractions represented in visual images, with misconceptions addressed through discussion. During the main teaching input, pupils learn how to find a unit fraction of a set by dividing the total number of objects by the denominator. Using clear visual modelling with sweets, counters, bar models, and base 10 resources, children share quantities into equal groups and identify the value of one part. Larger numbers are explored using base 10 to support accuracy and understanding. The practical partner activity encourages children to choose and solve problems collaboratively, using concrete resources and drawings such as bar models or circles to support their thinking before recording answers in their maths books. The plenary reinforces learning through a real-life sharing context, encouraging children to reason, explain, and justify their answers. This lesson provides a strong foundation for future work with fractions of quantities and promotes mathematical talk, collaboration, and hands-on learning. Includes: Detailed Year 3 lesson plan Clear focus on finding unit fractions of sets of objects Practical activities using counters, base 10, and bar models Partner and discussion-based learning Key questions to support reasoning and understanding Fully aligned with the KS2 fractions curriculum (Year 3)