The activity in this free math video helps build understanding of what “writing fractions in lowest terms” means. Notice I am not telling them any rules at this point. They are simply exploring the relationships within certain “families.” Eventually, they should be able to intuit the rules for themselves or, if not, at least understand why the rules make sense.
Using Cuisenaire Rods to learn about fractions gives children a visual and kinesthetic way to explore concepts that are rarely understood well. Instead of learning rules about symbols they will DISCOVER rules about the numbers that those symbols represent. (4 is not a number – it is a symbol that represents a number.)
This free math video is just a quick overview of where we’re going with fractions using Cuisenaire Rods. If you are confused, you need to get your hands on the rods. When I first tried to figure out how to teach fractions with the rods, I thought it was impossible… until I actually sat down and played with them several times (along with reading several books!) and now I’m starting to see how it all works. I’m still in the midst of processing it all so you’ll be following me on this journey of discovering fractions conceptually!
In this free math video, a bright 7-year-old gets a brief intro to fractions that equal one whole. Do this with various lengths until you see the light bulb go on in the student’s mind. It will take longer for some than others.
Cuisenaire Rods provide a visual and kinesthetic way for children to learn about numbers. They are also great for kids with dyslexia and dyscalculia!
