Teaching Resource
The Big Bug Build - Fraction Subtraction
A teacher-facilitated activity that teaches students to subtract fractions with like denominators.
While Alan and Ada Ant build sandcastles, students develop a conceptual understanding of fraction subtraction using strip diagrams.
5 problems include fractions with like denominators.
Use with the whole class to introduce or practice fraction subtraction or during tutoring or intervention.
This activity includes clear and concise teacher directions and Think Aloud questions, a detailed answer key, and conversation starters that give students what they need to have meaningful academic discussions.
A companion activity, Sandcastle Fun, deals primarily with addition.
Common Core Curriculum alignment
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.B.3
Understand a fraction a/b with a > 1 as a sum of fractions 1/b.

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Find more resources for these topics
MathematicsFractions, Decimals, and PercentagesOperationsAdditionSubtractionProblem SolvingNumbersSolveNumber and OperationsFractional OperationsWorksheetsTask CardsWord ProblemsMath Center ActivitiesGuided Math ActivitiesPracticeSmall Group
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