Fractions are one those topics where some students intrinsically understand what’s going on and others, it takes some explaining before those ah-ha moments.
This term we have tried a different approach to fractions using some iPad resources.
The first is a free app by Braining Camp called “Fractions“. This is my favourite app to use when teaching fractions. Each topic has an interactive lesson, review questions, manipulative and problem solving.
The second iPad resource was an eBook called “Fractions – Safari Maths“. This ebook included text, video, and review questions.
We have taught fractions a few times this year so this time we gave students a Fractions Tracking Sheet, and allowed students to work at their own pace. There was plenty of scope for support and extension in this unit.
Each student also had a book creator with various fraction topics they had to explain (using Explain Everything or an app of their choice). When complete each student will have an iBook journalling their understanding of fractions.
During these lessons Mrs. Swann and I would sit with students wanting extra assistance while those more confident worked through the various tasks and some extended themselves.
A couple times through the unit I have tested understanding using eclicker and was then able to focus on some areas that needed attention.
Feedback from students was extremely positive and the interactive features in the app and eBook have helped consolidate understanding of fractions.
Chantelle