Fractions

saraebeth · **Fractions** 10-28-2007, 04:26 PM

Ok, my kids didn't do very well at all on the fractions we did last week. They can simplify but they don't do it all the way. Should I go back and review that or just go on and review as we go? The system of I am following seems to have some holes and given that this is my first year in 5th. Any tips that will help my kids would be deaply appreciated.

Ellensclass · **Well...** 10-28-2007, 04:33 PM

Did you teach them to find the greatest common factor? (GCF) They can't go wrong if they do that...

Jump4Joy · **Fractions** 10-28-2007, 05:00 PM

Well, you are not alone. Fractions lessons sometimes need repeating over and over until they understand the CONCEPTS. Try giving them a mnemonic device to help them remember what to do. My kids decided to use GCF as Greatest Calories n Fat so that's why you REDUCE!! This just helped them to know when to use the GCF but it still needs lots of practice. Also, do a lot of hands-on activities that show equivalency in fractions. Make fraction strips using construction paper, and the kids can show all the equivalent fractions by matching up the strips. Or try the pizza fraction pieces that you can buy. I believe that it just takes lots of fun practice as well as drills on the procedures. Take your time and don't rush through it or you'll be sorry to see that they won't remember any of it by Christmas!!

klperry · 10-28-2007, 05:42 PM

I'm not sure I understand, but I think you mean they know to reduce, but do not do so to lowest terms? If that's the case, I'd move on. I'd reinforce this while doing so. Maybe I'd start the class with a 5 problem "Math Message" (borrowed from Everyday Math) and tell students that the have to copy down the 5 problems from the board. If the answers are all in lowest terms (all 5) they don't have to take the quiz again. Keep giving the quiz daily or a few times a week until most test out. That way you can move on, but spend a few minutes each day reinforcing. I did this with multiplication facts 1st quarter. I think I have 4 that never tested out, but those 4 are all still working on personal goals to learn all the facts.

Good luck!