What prior knowledge should the teacher draw on when introducing percentages to fifth graders?

When introducing percentages to fifth graders, drawing on the students' prior knowledge of fractions and decimals is crucial, as percentages are directly related to these concepts. Implementing activities that relate fractions and decimals to percentages allows students to see the connections between these mathematical ideas. For example, since a percentage is essentially a fraction with a denominator of 100, understanding how to convert a fraction to a percentage helps reinforce and deepen their understanding of both concepts.

Using an activity focused on this relationship enables students to engage with the material on a practical level, making it more relatable and easier to grasp. It encourages them to use their existing knowledge of fractions and decimals as a foundation for learning about percentages, leading to a stronger conceptual understanding overall.