Fractions
Writing to Learn
Journal entries, student-illustrated definitions and open-ended problems help students use writing to learn fractional concepts and terms. Students should be encouraged to draw pictures to illustrate fraction concepts or to solve problems.
- Explain what the numerator and denominator of a fraction tell you. Give 2-3 different examples that include numbers, pictures and words.
- Is 1/4 or 1/8 larger? Use words, pictures and numbers to explain your thinking to someone who doesn't understand. Can you write a general rule that helps you decide quickly?
- John says that 1/100 is the smallest fraction. Do you agree or disagree? Use words, pictures and numbers to support your position.
- Is 7/8 or 9/10 closer to 1? Use words, pictures and numbers to explain your thinking to someone who doesn't understand. Can you write a general rule that helps you decide quickly?
- Sort the fraction cards into groups of close to 0, close to 1/2 or close to 1. What strategies did you use to quickly sort the cards into these groups? Which fractions were harder to place? Why?