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Rolling for Fractions (3–5)

Stage 1: Equivalent Fractions

Narrative

One player rolls 6 number cubes and tries to use 4 of them to fill in a statement with 2 equivalent fractions. If the player cannot make a true statement, they can re-roll as many of the cubes as they like. Each player may re-roll twice. If the student can fill in a statement with 2 equivalent fractions, they get a point for the round. Students take turns for 6 rounds and the player with the most points at the end of the game wins.

Additional Information

Each group of 2 needs 6 number cubes.

Stage 2: Multiply a Fraction by a Whole Number

Narrative

Students roll 3 number cubes to generate a multiplication expression with a whole number and a fraction and compare the value of the expression to 1 in order to determine how many points are earned. Two recording sheets are provided, one where the fraction is a unit fraction and one where it can be any fraction.

Variation:

Students may choose a different target number to compare the value of their expression to.

Task Statement

Each group of 2 needs 3 number cubes.

Stage 3: Divide Whole Numbers

Narrative

Students roll 2 number cubes to generate a division expression, write the quotient as a fraction, and then compare the value of the expression to 1 in order to determine how many points are earned.

Variation:

Students may choose a different target number to compare the value of their expression to.

Additional Information

Each group of 2 needs 2 number cubes.

Stage 4: Multiply Fractions

Narrative

Students roll 4 number cubes to generate a multiplication expression involving 2 fractions and compare the value of the expressions. Two recording sheets are provided, one where one fraction is a unit fraction and one with no numerators given.

Additional Information

Each group of 2 needs 4 number cubes.

Stage 5: Divide Unit Fractions and Whole Numbers

Narrative

Students roll 3 number cubes to generate a division expression involving a whole number and a fraction and compare the value of the expressions.

Additional Information

Each group of 2 needs 3 number cubes.