Fun with Fractions

When introducing new concepts, sometimes it helps to go very low-key. We started fractions with a few simple exercises using play-doh!

Many concepts of fractions are already familiar, but a lot of the introduction to the math of fractions requires an ability to connect the known (e. g., to split something in half with a brother, equally) to a numerical expression of that reality--which requires an understanding of terms. We began with just looking at very basic terms of halves, quarters, and thirds, and how they interact with one another.

After a few days of that, we introduced edible manipulatives!

 As a friend of mine says, she finds it easier to stomach math when food is involved. (haha)

Tortillas are especially handy for reducing to fractions.

Even little sister can get in on the fun!

Easy and painless way to communicate halves, quarters, thirds, and even more complex fractions; we also practiced writing or recognizing the written form of what they could observe with their props. I think our introduction to fractions was a success!