Unit 3: Operations with Fractions

Models for Multiplying Fractions

This is a guided lesson where students are invited to use a model to solve a multiplication problem. After students share their work, an example of a model is provided for discussion. Area models, overlapping grids, counters, and number lines are all shown.

Prove it! Multiplying with Fractions

Multiplying with fractions is pretty easy to do symbolically. But do students really know what they are doing? Do they understand what multiplying means? Try this series of problems that use pattern blocks.

Multiplying with Fractions Tic Tac Toe

Choose a row or a column of three in a 3 by 3 grid. Cells contains either a picture, expression, or word problem. Give the other two representations so that each cell you pick has the multiplication represented three ways. This works well when students are still practicing pictorial representations.

Making Sense of Dividing Fractions

This could act as the kick off to discussing dividing fractions. All problems center on a single context and students are asked to use models to figure out solutions in their groups.

Transitioning to Symbolic Representations

This slide deck offers an example or two of “seeing the algorithm” in the pictures. This may help smooth the transition from solving with pictures to solving with symbols.

Dividing Fractions Using Patterns

This slide deck has prompts to invite an examination and generalization about division. Once noticed and confirmed, the generalization is put to use by altering problems to make them easier to solve.

Dividing Fractions – Multiple Representations

This slide deck is a way to consolidate some ideas about division. Using pictures, .choosing an idea of division that makes sense with the numbers, multiplying by the reciprocal, checking using the inverse operation, etc.

Connecting to Operations

Want to confirm students know the difference between multiplying and dividing?
Try this mix of problems from the same story.

Mystery Number Riddles Fraction Edition

Nine riddles where students must use their knowledge of fraction operations to narrow down the possibilies to a single number.

This might be a lot to do in one sitting.
Three at a time, individually as warm-ups – lots of options on how to use with your students.