Blog
Starting with unit fractions or proper fractions in the simplest form, show your students how to multiply those numbers by one to make a row of equivalent fractions.
Search for metaphors and analogies to help students create a mental picture of one item as an amalgamation. Imagine one word. A word could have one syllable, a word could have two syllables, three or more syllables, and it is still only one single word. Each of the following is only one word: Three, number, ... Continue Reading
The More; the Better When it Comes to Modeling Fractions Students need to experience several types of models and manipulatives in order to generalize concepts about fractions. Like any number, fractions have a place on the number line, which is why they are an essential linear model. But number lines alone aren't enough for ... Continue Reading
Having a nuanced understanding of the academic words being used in class is one of the best ways to build understanding of the concepts represented by that word. Students should have many encounters with the target vocabulary. They should hear it spoken, see it written, and have risk-free opportunities to practice saying it.
What do Students need to Understand Before they can Make Sense of Equivalent Fractions? When you are about to get started teaching equivalent fractions, it is well worth your time to ensure that your students have the necessary skills and concepts in place before they are asked to apply them. Click on the links ... Continue Reading
Like so many concepts in math, students must continue to expand their understanding of the idea as they learn more advanced topics. The Multiplicative Identity of One may seem self evident to little kids just learning to multiply or divide, but it will take on new importance when those students learn about rational numbers.
A great way to compare two fractions is to cross multiply. Multiply the denominators of each fraction by the numerators of the other fraction. Have your students place the products on top of each fraction. This lets the products act as 'column titles.' The larger product sits on top of the larger fraction. Let ... Continue Reading
Let your students get plenty of practice reducing fractions to their simplest form before you ask them to use this method as a test of equivalence. When they start reducing fractions, you students will not be able to find the largest common factor the first time. Give them time to get used to the process of reducing fractions.
Rational Numbers Are About Relationships Take some of the mystery out of equivalent fractions by inviting students to investigate how equivalent fractions are made before trying to reduce them to their simplest form, or prove their equivalence. Rational numbers are challenging for students to understand. For one thing, there is a never-ending supply of ... Continue Reading
Encourage your students to think about fractions in their simplest forms in many different ways. This will help them create a flexible understanding of the concept. They could think of a fraction in simplest form as a stamp or motif. When the stamps are used side by side to create a design, that would represent ... Continue Reading
Many students are surprised when they first discover that whole numbers have a denominator and that the denominator is always one. It is essential for students to understand why whole numbers have a denominator of one in order for them to find equivalent fractions, place fractions and mixed numbers on the number line, or calculate with fractions or mixed numbers.
Skip counting is one of the small joys in life. Knowing what comes next. Counting faster and faster. Skip counting with your friends or classmates. Skip counting by three makes multiplication facts sticky. Variations increase fun and difficulty. Watch the slide show and whisper: each number in the series as it appears. (on screen) whispered: ... Continue Reading
Download Colorful Collections:
A Mindful Exploration of Proper Fractions
Help your students make sense of fractions.
I started teaching in 1987, which means I’ve collected many tips and tricks along the way. In this ebook, I share concepts, strategies, and classroom materials to help you make math sticky.
Along with this useful ebook, you will receive weekly emails from StickyMath@UnCommon-Core.com. I send information like: teacher tips, educational ideas, book reviews, curated lists, reviews of educational sites, and free first drafts of products that I’m creating for my TPT store. That way, you get helpful ideas and free stuff, while I get some feedback before I finalize products and put them up for sale.
I value your privacy. I will never sell your information. You may unsubscribe at any time.
All the best!
Isabelle
Isabelle Hoag M. Ed.