Children explore creating fractions of different-size wholes. They explore the idea that there are multiple ways to reach a desired solution using a limited set of instructions.
computer-based
Children explore creating fractions of different-size wholes. They use a small set of instructions to represent different fraction circle pieces. First, they explore how the same fraction circle piece changes fraction as the whole changes (e.g., using the pink ½ piece as the whole), using the “Set Whole [color]” block. Then, they explore how changing the “Set piece [color]” changes the fraction when the ‘set whole color pink’ block stays the same. Finally, they note that keeping the “Set 1/[x]” constant at ½ but varying the whole changes which color piece is selected – that is, the piece that is ½ of a whole depends on the size of that whole. Teachers guide children’s exploration of these ideas as they complete a fractions sheet.
Children represent fractions using different-sized wholes.
Children explore the idea that there are multiple ways to reach a desired solution using a limited set of instructions. Depending on the desired goal and strategy, different instructions will be needed.