Fraction World

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.A.1 Add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators (including mixed numbers) by replacing given fractions with equivalent fractions in such a way as to produce an equivalent sum or difference of fractions with like denominators.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.5.NF.A.2 Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole, including cases of unlike denominators, e.g., by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem. Use benchmark fractions and number sense of fractions to estimate mentally and assess the reasonableness of answers.

Guiding Ideas

Explore these ideas with your class:

1) How do we add and subtract fractions?

2) What is an equivalent fractions?

3) How do we add and subtract fractions with different denominator?

4) What real world situations could adding and subtracting with fractions useful?

5) Teach the algorithm for adding and subtracting with unlike denominators.

Student Activities

To begin, students will load the attached single player Minecraft world "Fraction World".

1) Observe Math Models

Students will enter a single player world and observe math models visualizing the addition and subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators. There are help videos included in the NPCs that will connect the math models to the algorithm. Once students understand how to use the math models, they should enter the next room.

2) Math Mode - Problem Room

Students will complete and solve problems that involve adding and subtracting with fractions. They will document their work by taking a picture in their portfolio.

3) Performance Task - Old McDonald Had a Farm

Students will go into the third room to meet Old MacDonald and see his plans for a new farm. They will analyze his plan for the farm to determine if the plan will work or not. Next they will create their own plan then build their plan in Minecraft to prove their math is correct.