Fraction Fun.

We are halfway through our fraction unit right now (see what I did there?). My big goal in this unit, well with any unit, is to really make sure they learn the concepts but in a fun and hands on way. Fractions are usually cause for groans of "I don't get it" but I have found some fun ways to make sure the groans are because math is over for the day! Most of what I do addresses the concepts the units in the book cover, but in a more hands-on exploration manner vs worksheet way. 

We started the unit talking about the concept of fractions and creating our anchor chart together. It hangs near our work space and the kids do refer back to it all unit long to check concepts and to find ways to help themselves solve a problem.

To reinforce the concept of "fractions of a set" we made fraction kites. Each kiddo was given a 5x5 grid. They could use up to 5 colors and colored it in. They then had to write the fraction of each color. We gently touched on our fractions adding up to 25/25 - which will be a nice item to circle back to when we get to adding fractions next week.

For exploring the concept of fractions as equal parts of a whole, we used dominoes. The drew a domino. Divided the square into the number indicated in the denominator (the number of parts in our whole) and then shaded in the number in the numerator (the part of the whole shaded in). This also allowed us to learn the best ways to divide a shape - this can be a tricky concept for some kids.

Our gum ball fractions was also part of our exploration on fractions of a set. They were given a set of colored "gum balls" and had to write the fraction of each color. We also previewed comparing fractions in this activity, which we will truly address next week. *(I like to gently preview some concepts when I can so that when we get to the actual skill it's not so scary since they have some prior knowledge of the terminology and idea.)

One of my favorites! Number line fractions. I put a long piece of tape on the floor and write fractions on index cards. We then talk about where each fraction goes in relation to the whole numbers I have placed on the line. To start, I put 0 at one end and 1 at the other. Then once they get the concept of where fractions go on the line, we move into mixed numbers. They love this set of lessons, plus it's a great way to get them to line up for lunch!

After number line fractions, we move into benchmark fractions. Here I pull out the fraction strips and they use the strips to find out if a fraction is closer to 0, 1/2, or 1 whole. They do the activity and then we talk about what they discovered. They quickly discovered that the greater the distance between the numerator and denominator the closer to 0 (1/18th or 2/10th), if you divide the two numbers and get 2 it's close to half, and if the numerator and denominator are close together it's closer to 1 because it's almost one whole item (3/4, 6/8, etc).

I am loving being able to help a generation of kids not be afraid of fractions and love this unit, maybe most of all!

also...going to do a better job at promoting my Monday link-up!

come join the Good.Random.Fun. each Monday, right here!