Saturday, July 16, 2011

1510 Post #5: Fractions every way

I tried to think of the first time I was introduced to fractions. I'm sure it was either at a shoe store with half sizes or maybe being a half year older when relatives asked my age. In any case, it was definitely not in the first grade. However, today students are being introduced to it no later than third grade according to state standards. While fractions may seem very daunting to many, it is just a matter of learning the rules and cognitively thinking about why it is what it is.

Recently an assignment called for me to add, subtract, multiply, divide, rewrite, find the difference, simplify, find the multiplicative inverse, or the reciprocal of many fractions. I was pleased to see that the process was a series of steps that when followed in order and properly would constantly yield correct results. The clip below provides a very clear cut explanation for multiplying fractions.



As it is with other subject matter and in life, figuring out how to work with fractions is just something that takes practice. It may also require a fresh view of the idea that has been presented numerous times. Teachers need to be aware of the potential fears that are rooted in fractions with their students. Finding video clips of other explanations, searching the web for lesson plan ideas, and identifying the learning styles of students are just a few things educators can do to ensure success with fractions no matter what way they need to be changed. Fraction games that are available online are also a good way to keep the learning going after the material has been presented.

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