Fractions in Minecraft

8-10 yrs old

Math & Economics

Students will build math models that correspond to fraction operations and solve four to six problems per standard.

Submitted By: Minecraft Education

February 8, 2020

Lesson Plan
My Notes

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Skills

Creativity
Critical Thinking

External References

Minecraft World File

Download the world and open with Minecraft: Education Edition. Note: The same world file is used for each of the standards.

Common Core Standard Links

Engage NY Link

Associated Engage NY module and lesson.

Learning Objectives

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.A.1 Explain why a fraction a/b is equivalent to a fraction (n × a)/(n × b) by using visual fraction models, with attention to how the number and size of the parts differ even though the two fractions themselves are the same size. Use this principle to recognize and generate equivalent fractions.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.A.2 Compare two fractions with different numerators and different denominators, e.g., by creating common denominators or numerators, or by comparing to a benchmark fraction such as 1/2. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.B.3.D Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole and having like denominators, e.g., by using visual fraction models and equations to represent the problem.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.B.4 Apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication to multiply a fraction by a whole number.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.C.5 Express a fraction with denominator 10 as an equivalent fraction with denominator 100, and use this technique to add two fractions with respective denominators 10 and 100.2For example, express 3/10 as 30/100, and add 3/10 + 4/100 = 34/100.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.C.6 Use decimal notation for fractions with denominators 10 or 100. For example, rewrite 0.62 as 62/100; describe a length as 0.62 meters; locate 0.62 on a number line diagram.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.NF.C.7 Compare two decimals to hundredths by reasoning about their size. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two decimals refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with the symbols >, =, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual model.

Guiding Ideas

Teachers should play the world in preparation for the classes so they can get familiar with the math models. Each level represents one class period.

Below are questions to begin a discussion about fractions:

1) What is the great 1? (a fraction that equals one such as 4/4)

2) How does ¾ equal 6/8?

3) What is an equivalent fraction?

4) How do we compare the size of fractions?

5) How do we add and subtract fractions?

6) How can we multiply fractions to whole numbers?

7) When do we need to use equivalent fractions?

8) What is the relationship between fractions and decimals?

9) How can we compare decimals?

Student Activities

To being download and start the attached Minecraft world focused on Fractions.

Students will enter a single player world, build math models and answer questions pertaining to the 4th grade numbers and fractions standards. It is recommended students save their world and use to the same world file for each lesson.

The first room is a HUB, where you either begin Level 1, or you can warp to any level. (NOTE: You can return to the Hub by using the command /tp @s 23 5 5 at any time).

Students will document their learning by taking pictures of their math models and their scores will be recorded by the NPC’s. Video tutorials are included to additional explanation.

Level 1 4.NFA.1 Creating Equivalent Fractions with the “Great 1”.

Level 2 4.NFA.2 Comparing Fractions.

Level 3 4.NFA.3 Adding and Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators.

Level 4 4.NFA.4 Multiplying Whole Number to Fractions.

Level 5 4.NFA.5 Adding fractions with denominators of 10 and 100.

Level 6 4.NFA.6 Converting Decimals to Fractions.

Level 7 4.NFA.7 Comparing Decimals.

Students will turn in a portfolio with their math models and track their scores in the “Score Room”. The game will track how many correct and incorrect answers they scored for each standard. Several rooms include a structure block. You'll need to be in Creative Mode to use these. This tutorial can help you use this optional resource.