Educational Games Lesson Plan:
Playing with Fractions

December 06, 2011

Grade/Age Level: 4th and 5th graders

Subject Area: Math; Adding unlike fractions

Time allotted for lesson: 1 hour

Description of lesson: Students will gain practice adding unlike fractions (fractions with different denominators). Students have had previous lessons on this topic and have a basic understanding of how to add unlike fractions, but need more practice applying the knowledge.

Curriculum Standards Addressed (The Common Core State Standards)

Extend understanding of fraction equivalence and ordering:

  • 4.NF.2. Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.

Use equivalent fractions as a strategy to add and subtract fractions:

  • 5.NF.1. Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators (including mixed numbers) by replacing given fractions with equivalent fractions in such a way as to produce an equivalent sum or difference of fractions with like denominators. For example, 2/3 + 5/4 = 8/12 + 15/12 = 23/12. (In general, a/b + c/d = (ad + bc)/bd.)

  • 5.NF.2. Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole, including cases of unlike denominators, e.g., by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem. Use benchmark fractions and number sense of fractions to estimate mentally and assess the reasonableness of answers. For example, recognize an incorrect result 2/5 + 1/2 = 3/7, by observing that 3/7 < 1/2.

Technology Standards Addressed

  1. Facilitate and Inspire Student Learning and Creativity

    1. engage students in exploring real-world issues and solving authentic problems using digital tools and resources

  2. Model Digital-Age Work and Learning

    1. demonstrate fluency in technology systems and the transfer of current knowledge to new technologies and situations

    2. communicate relevant information and ideas effectively to students, parents, and peers using a variety of digital-age media and formats

Instructional Objectives

At the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:

  • Add unlike fractions

  • Collaborate with fellow students

  • Apply knowledge to solve real world problems

  • Communicate in order to solve problems

Instructional Procedures

Lesson Set

The teacher will review the process of converting unlike fractions to like fractions in order to add them together.

Techniques and Activities

  1. The teacher will remind students that unlike fractions can be found all over the real world, and that this knowledge can be applied in many different situations

  2. The teacher will model using the game for students and make sure they understand how to play

  3. Students will pair off and spend 30 minutes playing the game

Lesson Closure

The teacher will ask students what they thought of the game, and whether they feel more comfortable with adding unlike fractions. Students will brainstorm other situations that would require adding unlike fractions.

Assessment/Evaluation

Students will work in groups of 3-4, outside of class, to develop an outline of a game that utilizes the skill of adding unlike fractions in the context of the gameplay. The outline will describe the game environment, target audience, game goals, and at least one level of gameplay.

Learner Products

  • Learners will develop a game description utilizing the skill of adding unlike fractions