Teaching Resource
Math Investigation - Operations with Fractions with Common Denominators
A mathematics investigation about fractions, embedded in a real-world context.
This open-ended mathematics investigation has been designed to deepen students’ understanding of fractions.
In this investigation, students must use their knowledge and understanding of fractions to design a colorful floor rug for a home renovation competition. The floor rug design must adhere to a list of competition rules. Students must record and analyze their color choices on the worksheet provided.
This teaching resource includes:
- teacher notes, detailing a range of important information about the investigation
- a detailed description of the investigation for students, including step-by-step instructions
- two blank floor rug templates
- two ‘recording and analyzing’ worksheets
- reflection questions.
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Common Core Curriculum alignment
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.A.2
Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions ref...
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.B.3
Understand a fraction a/b with a > 1 as a sum of fractions 1/b.
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.B.3.A
Understand addition and subtraction of fractions as joining and separating parts referring to the same whole.
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.B.3.D
Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole and having like denominators, e.g., by using visual fraction models and equations to represent the problem.
- CCSS.MATH.PRACTICE.MP4
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Find more resources for these topics
MathematicsFractions, Decimals, and PercentagesMathematics InvestigationsFractional OperationsProjectsOpen-Ended TasksMath Center ActivitiesFractions
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Resource Updates
Rug templated changed from 5 x 5 to 6 x 4.
Change by Stephanie (Teach Starter) Aug 13th, 2017Uneven boxes in rug template fixed.
Fix by Stephanie (Teach Starter) Jun 12th, 2017
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