Fraction Wars! - Math Concept Teaching Game, Personal Learning Path Week 6

 Fraction Wars 

 I found a great mathematics game inspired by Susan Jones (@SusanJonesteaching) that heavily relates to the subject that I have been reviewing and using with my students over the past few weeks, Fractions! The name of the game is called Fraction Wars.

1)The NYS Standards that are associated with this game are:

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.3.NF.A.3
Explain equivalence of fractions in special cases, and compare fractions by reasoning about their size.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.3.NF.A.3.A
Understand two fractions as equivalent (equal) if they are the same size, or the same point on a number line.

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.3.NF.A.3.D
Compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator by reasoning about their size. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with the symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.

 

The mathematical practices that are associated with this game are:

CCSS.MATH.PRACTICE.MP6 Attend to precision.

Students will be able to communicate with their teacher, partner, or classmates why or why not they have received the bigger fraction. Students will need to be careful to draw out an appropriate and accurate representation of their fraction, as well as shading in the correct amount. Students can determine utilize vocabulary that we have learned in class to explain what they have done.

CCSS.MATH.PRACTICE.MP4 Model with mathematics.

Students will apply their knowledge of mathematics and content that we have learned in class to help them solve the problem. Using a drawing of the shape of choice and creating a representation of a fraction is a form of modeling. This practice is demonstrated by students being able to identify and make comparisons between both fractions.

 

2) This grade is appropriate for third grade since this is the grade where fractions are introduced, however there are many ways to transform this game to match lower or higher grades. For example, for third grade students I may start out using numbers 1-4 or 1-6 on the dice. For older students, teachers can incorporate higher numbers for more of a challenge. You can also incorporate specific shapes, partner or group work for younger grades or special education students who may need that extra support.

3) Instructions for the Game:

The teacher can decide to split up the class in two groups, use partners to challenge one another or call up individual students to face off in front of the class. The teacher or students will use a recording sheet that shows “Player 1” and “Player 2” on it. This will help to keep score of who wins each round. The goal of this game is for students to “roll a fraction” and determine which fraction is bigger.

First, Player 1 will roll a set of dice. Player 1 will look at both numbers presented on the dice and take the larger number, this will become the denominator (the whole) The smaller number will become the numerator (the part). Once Player 1 has their fraction, they will write the fraction in the square on the recording sheet. Next, Player 2 will roll the dice. Once Player 2 receives a fraction, they will write their fraction into the provided square on the recording sheet as well.

Now, Players must determine whose fraction is bigger. Using a whiteboard, Players will draw a shape of their choice, but each Player must draw the same shape (to show comparison). Each player will show their fraction and shade in the fraction that they rolled. Whichever fraction is bigger will draw a greater than symbol on the recording sheet and color in the square. This player wins the round! Best out of 10 rounds wins the game.

*If Players roll fractions that are equal, they will record an equal sign on the recording sheet and both Players can color in their square*

 

4) Materials Needed:

-Dry erase whiteboards

-Dry erase markers

-Set of dice

-Recording sheet