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Action Fractions

Fractions can be intimidating when taught with numbers and lines alone, but when combined with familiar ideas, even very young children can grasp the concept of pieces of things. This lesson will guide children through the basics of fractions.

Learning Objectives
After completing the lessons in this unit, students will be able to:

  • Define a fraction.
  • Determine equivalent fractions.
  • Add simple fractions using manipulatives.

Preparation

  • Print the Action Fraction: Exploring Fractions booklet. Cut the pages in half, along the dotted line, and staple on the side to make a “book.”
  • Gather supplies for making cookies as referenced in the booklet.
  • Create a fraction kit using the templates on the following pages:
    • Cut one blue circle.
    • Cut two ½ circle pieces of red.
    • Cut three ⅓ circle pieces of yellow.
    • Cut four ¼ circle pieces of green.

Extension

Books
Websites

This series of lessons was designed to meet the needs of gifted children for extension beyond the standard curriculum with the greatest ease of use for the educator. The lessons may be given to the students for individual self-guided work, or they may be taught in a classroom or a home-school setting. Assessment strategies and rubrics are included at the end of each section. The rubrics often include a column for "scholar points," which are invitations for students to extend their efforts beyond that which is required, incorporating creativity or higher level technical skills.