Fractions

2 Pages 378 Words

Abstract on Fractions



This game involves concepts about fractions such as identifying fractions themselves, identifying equivalent fractions and improper fractions, performing operations with fractions and reading and writing fractions. The object of the game “fraction squares” is to make fractions that add up to one whole using certain manpulatives. The version described in this article contained ten ones, ten twos, ten fours, and ten eights to allow for the appropriate fractions. Along with the manipulatives, each player needs a “fraction kit.” This kit is composed of a white tile to represent the whole, red tiles to represent halves, blue tiles to represent fourths, and yellow tiles to represent eighths. These tiles are used to test the students’ answers by covering the whole with the fractional pieces and seeing which answers work and which do not. The author notes that Cuisenaire Rods can be used in place of the fraction tiles.
The game is played as follows: First, each player randomly picks ten game pieces. The player may use as many of his or her pieces to form fractions that are equivalent to one whole. The students use all of their tiles to figure out all of the possible combinations. All students should use the “whole tile” as a guide and place the fractional tiles on top of it. Players should attempt to find the combination that gives the most points. A player scores one point for each piece used correctly and has the opportunity to earn two, four, eight, or ten points for each problem. The students record their points on a scoring form. Typically three rounds are played and the student with the most points at the end of these rounds is the winner.
This activity is extremely effective in teaching fractions. The manipulatives give the students a visual picture so they can better understand the new concept. Also, the competitive nature of the game is great for motivation. The article talks about modifi...