Montessori Math Time: Adding and Subtracting Fraction Circles

In this class, students will have the opportunity to learn about the concept of adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. Students will be able to see and use Montessori math materials (the red fraction circles) in a concrete way to practice addition & subtraction fraction  skills. Before instruction begins, we’ll take a few minutes to do introductions, a brief icebreaker and review some simple class rules. Then the fun begins! I will be screen sharing my materials via document camera so learners can have a more genuine and realistic experience of learning about fractions. 

I will help guide students from concrete  towards abstraction and give them time to work through fraction based problems independently. I believe in student centered learning, so I am happy to adjust to the pace at which they are comfortable and confident.  More challenging work can be given if that’s needed as well! Please see the following breakdown of lessons and topics:

Week 1, Topic 1- The first part of this lesson will be a review of the parts of a fraction, using several examples. The terms of numerator and denominator will be revisited. The number above the black line is called the “numerator,“( how many pieces we have)  and the number below the black line is called the “denominator.“ ( how many pieces there are all together). We will then go through the process of adding fractions with like denominators. Students will learn to only add the top number (numerator)  and not add the bottom number (denominator does not change). I will demonstrate doing some examples via document camera by tracing the red fraction circles on white paper. (2/4 +1/4= 3/4)  Learners are invited to do this as well either with their own plastic fraction pieces, or they can cut and paste electronic fraction pieces that have been sent and printed. Follow up work will be assigned for independent practice. 

Week 2, Topic 2- In this lesson, the emphasis will be on subtracting fractions. Before beginning the process, we will review the problems that were assigned for follow up work and allow time to answer any questions about the work. Students will then observe that the process of subtracting fractions is similar to adding in that no action is taken with the denominators, only the numerators are subtracted from one another. (3/5 -1/5 =2/5). If students would like to simply write out problems and not trace or cut and paste, that’s fine! Extension will also be made available with word problems if needed.

In order to be successful in this course, learners should be able to have a knowledge of adding/subtracting numbers, and writing/expressing  fractions correctly. 
I look forward to helping your learner build their concrete and abstract fraction skills in this engaging and stimulating course. See you in math class!