Montessori Math Time: Beginning Fraction Circles

In this class, students will have the opportunity to learn about the concept of fractions. Students will be able to see and use Montessori math materials in a concrete way to practice 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:

In lesson 1, we will start with a presentation using a whole apple which is compared to the golden unit bead. To emphasize that the fraction is part of a whole, the apple will be cut into equal parts to show a fair share of one whole apple (2 halves, 4 fourths). We will talk about how fractions are used in our daily lives when talking about things such as amounts of milk  or pizza. (1/2 gallon, 1/4 of a pizza). Students will give their own examples of fractions they encounter in everyday life. We will then transition from a 3D apple to the flat red fraction circles used in Montessori learning. The fraction circles are the primary material for introducing the concept of a number less than one. Learners can then show examples of simple fractions using their own 2D fraction materials. (Digital fractions will be supplied electronically before class). 

In lesson 2, we will expand our knowledge of fractions by comparing fractions to names of family members. Typically a family
has a shared last name, but each member of the family has their own unique first  name. (The Leighton family contains Kristi, Emily, Charlie and Bob). Students will discover that family members are given fraction names depending on how many members there are in the family. (The fourths family, the sixths family, etc.) Loose, square number labels and small black paper strips will be used to show how a fraction is written. (2/5). The terms of numerator and denominator will then be introduced. The number above the black line is called the “numerator,“ and the number below the black line is called the “denominator.“ ( the name of the family) As an extension activity, students can play a matching game with written fractions and the corresponding red fraction circles. Learners can also trace the red fractions in a notebook and label each one for additional practice. 

In order to be successful in this course, learners should be able to have a knowledge of ordinal numbers, sequence  numbers, and write/express 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!