Teaching fractions to 3rd graders can be difficult, but also so fun! With these quick tips and ideas, you will have 3rd grade students mastering fractions in no time!Â
Order of Teaching Fractions to 3rd Graders
You want to teach fractions in an organized way that makes sense. Here is what I suggest:
- Introduction DayÂ
- Understanding FractionsÂ
- Fractions on a Number line
- Equivalent Fractions
- Equivalent Fractions on a Number line
- Word Problems with Fractions
Fractions Introduction Lesson
1. Give students a bunch of manipulatives. This could be cubes, blocks, etc.
2. Give them five minutes to play.
3. Watch this video here and go over what a fraction is.
4. Use the blocks to practice making different fractions.Â
Fractions in Stations
I highly recommend teaching fractions in stations instead of whole group. This way you can really make sure that each student fully understands it.
My stations look like this…
M: Digital Practice: Students are playing games and creating fractions digitally
A: At your Seat: Here is where students are doing a worksheet to practice fractions
T: Teacher Time: This is where you are teaching them the topic of that day
H: Hands-On: Let them play a game with their friends to practice fractions
You can read more about math stations here!
Using Manipulatives Always
Every single day of teaching fractions you should have some kind of manipulatives out. Blocks, cubes, fraction sticks, etc.
Here are my fav manipulatives to use with fractions (Affiliate link).
Digital Fractions
Kids love practicing all math skills online and guess what?! There are tons of digital options. Below is a list of links to activities students can do digitally for fractions!Â
Fractions on a Numberline Video
Compare and Order Fractions video
Quick Lesson Ideas for Teaching Fractions
- Â Read this book on EPIC to the students to walk through understanding fractions.
- Human fractions! Have students figure out the fraction of students in different categories. You can have them draw this on a number line too if you’d like.
- Give students fractions and they will create an equivalent fraction to the one you gave them by multiplying both the top and the bottom by the same number using chalk outside! Bonus: if they are ready for this, show them how to divide to find the simplest form as well.
Want all the activities for teaching fractions to third graders?! Grab everything you need here!
Hannah Wilde
I am so glad you’re here! I love helping 3rd-5th grade teachers by providing ideas, engaging resources, and professional development they need. I am a literacy coach who is here to help lessen the workload for teachers while making them more confident! I want students to be continually engaged in a rigorous environment!