Fraction Circles

Fraction Circles make abstract fractions concrete. Children can see and manipulate parts of a whole.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Mathematics
• Learning area: Fractions
• Level: Ages 5-6

Objectives

• Understand fractions as parts of whole
• Compare fraction sizes
• Develop fraction vocabulary
• Prepare for fraction operations

Materials

• Fraction Circles: divided into halves, thirds, fourths, etc.
• Fraction nomenclature cards
• Fraction stand

Instructions

1. Present whole circle. 2. Show half: 'This is one half.' 3. Two halves make one whole. 4. Continue with thirds, fourths, etc. 5. Compare: 'Which is larger, 1/2 or 1/4?' 6. Three-period lesson for fraction names.

Educator tip

Use fraction language: numerator (how many pieces), denominator (how many equal parts). Make this concrete.

Assessment

Child identifies and compares fractions using manipulatives.

More from Mathematics

• Telling Time
• Number Rods and Numerals
• Memory Game: Number Walk
• Skip Counting Chains: Chain of 100
• Golden Beads: Subtraction with Exchanging
• Multiplication with Bead Bars: Skip Counting
• Dot Game (Place Value Addition)
• Introduction to Zero