This video shows how to use the set model to represent fractions, such as 1/2. In the set model, the whole is represented by a set of objects, such as two-colored chips. Individual chips within the set, represent the fractional parts. It is important that students be exposed to the set model because fractions in real-world settings are often represented this way.
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This video illustrates three different models for representing fractions: length, area, and set. Different concrete tools are available to illustrate the different fraction models including fraction tiles, fraction circles, Cuisenaire Rods, Geoboards, and different colored objects such as chips or clips. Many students struggle with fractions; for this reason, students should have multiple opportunities to explore fractions with a variety of models. When students understand how to use concrete models, they will develop the skills that are necessary to develop mental models and reasoning strategies related to fractions. Students should also have the opportunity to use different models to solve the same types of problems and discuss connections between the models.
This video demonstrates how to use fraction circles to compare the value of fractions with unlike denominators. This example compares 5/6 and 5/8. In this example students can see that 5/6 is greater than 5/8. This will help them understand that although 8 is larger than 6, sixths are larger than eighths in fractions. Using fractions circles allows students to develop a solid conceptual understanding of how to compare fractions correctly.
This video demonstrates how to use fraction tiles to explore how different fractions can be equivalent to the same value, such as 1/2. It is important for students to understand that fractions have multiple representations because they can apply this knowledge to compare fractions, especially fractions with unlike denominators. For example, students can use the benchmark of 1/2 to determine that 1/4 is less than 4/6 by knowing that the equivalent fractions of 1/2 include 2/4 and 3/6.
This video demonstrates how to use fraction tiles to explore how different fractions can be equivalent to the same value, such as 1/5 and 2/10. It is important for students to understand that fractions have multiple representations because they can apply this knowledge to compare fractions, find common denominators, and perform computation with fractions.
This video illustrates the use of manipulatives to help students practice correspondence and tracking objects as objects are counted in different ways. When children understand that objects may be counted in any order (e.g., left-to-right, right-to-left, in a random fashion) they have developed an understanding of the order irrelevance counting principle. Counting objects in many different ways also allows students to practice tracking objects as the objects are counted to make sure that each objects is counted once and only once, regardless of the order in which the object is counted.
This video illustrates the use of manipulatives to help students practice number relations skills. When numbers are represented with manipulatives as sets, students develop a concrete understanding for comparing quantities. Students must possess a deep understanding of number relation skill including identifying more, less, and equal quantities prior to mastering higher-level skills such as number operations.
This video illustrates the use of an efficient counting on strategy that students may practice to solve simple addition problems without the use of manipulatives. When students use a counting on strategy to solve an addition problem, they must be able to hold one number in working memory; however, an important working memory strategy to teach students and allow students to practice includes using fingers to track counting. Counting on is an efficient strategy that students may use to quickly determine the solution to an addition problem. With enough practice opportunities students will soon be able to perform simple arithmetic without the use of working memory strategies such as finger counting.
This video illustrates the use of an efficient counting on strategy that students may practice to solve simple subtraction problems without the use of manipulatives.
This video illustrates the use of manipulatives to help students practice counting skills such as correspondence and cardinality. When students practice counting with manipulatives they learn to recognize that number names are stated in a standard order, each number word is paired with one and only one object, and the last number stated in the sequence tells the number of total objects counted in the set. It is important for students to master skills such as correspondence and cardinality, because a strong foundation in counting is necessary for students to learn other skills such as number relations.