I’ve said it before, but it’s important to say it again…understanding fractions begins with understanding the whole and the pieces that make it up.  The question below is a good way to get students to reflect on the idea that, with fractions, each piece names one equal part.  The CCSSM identifies each part as a ‘unit fraction’.

Posing this question is a great opportunity to focus on the CCSSM Standards for Mathematical Practice, Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.  Have students work in pairs or small groups to discuss possible answers and then be ready to share-out.