Blog 3 Intro to Fractions Using the Number Line

Throughout my childhood, I struggled with arithmetic because it was always daunting to me. I had to do some self-research to obtain a better knowledge of the subject and how to teach it to my students before I could begin the next topic on fractions on the number line. After doing some investigation, I discovered some excellent resources and ideas to use in this classroom.

 CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.3.NF.A.2.B 

Represent a fraction a/b on a number line diagram by marking off a lengths 1/b from 0. Recognize that the resulting interval has size a/b and that its endpoint locates the number a/b on the number line.

To begin the session, I had students view Generation Genius' Intro to Fractions Using the Number Line.This was a great source to use as an introduction because it kept students engaged and it gave a detailed explanation using food, paintings, music, hiking and fraction bars. 

The next activity, to further students understanding with a hands on approach, students made a fraction number line using snap cubes. First, I modeled the fraction with 2 different color snap cubes (green and yellow),I represented the model on the number line by adding tick marks after each cube, Then starting at zero, have them count the number of “parts” in the whole 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. There are 8 parts to the whole. In other words, the stick of cubes is broken into eighths. Practice counting the cubes 1/8, 2/8, 3/8, 4/8, 5/8, 6/8, 7/8, 8/8. Finally, have them label the point on the line that represents the fraction of the bar that is green. This is also a great opportunity to point out that 4/8 really means {4 out of 8 cubes are green.}

After modeling the activity for the class, I gave each student: paper, markers and two snap cubes in two different colors of their choice to complete the activity on their own. I walked around the class while students were engaged in the activity to ensure they understood the task. Other methods I've discovered for introducing fractions on the number line include graph paper, pipe cleaners, and beads.

Below is the link to the video I used to introduce fractions using the number line. It's free for 30 days. 

https://www.generationgenius.com/videolessons/intro-to-fractions-using-the-number-line/