NCDPI – AIG Instructional Resource: Background Information

Resource Title: Fraction Creativity
Subject Area/Grade Level (s): Math/3 / Time Frame: 2-3 class periods or short project
Common Core Standard Addressed:
Numbers and Operations-Fractions
Develop understanding of fractions as numbers.
3.NF.1 Understand a fraction 1/b as the quantity formed by 1 part when a whole is partitioned into b equal parts; understand a fraction a/b as the quantity formed by a parts of size 1/b.
3.NF.2 Understand a fraction as a number on the number line; represent fractions on a number line diagram.
a. Represent a fraction 1/b on a number line diagram by defining the interval from 0 to 1 as the whole and partitioning it into b equal parts. Recognize that each part has size 1/b and that the endpoint of the part based at 0 locates the number 1/b on the number line.
b. Represent a fraction a/b on a number line diagram by marking off a lengths 1/b from 0. Recognize that the resulting interval has size a/b and that its endpoint locates the number a/b on the number line.
Mathematical Practices
6. Attend to precision.
Additional Standards Addressed:
Technology: 3.TT.1 Use technology tools and skills to reinforce classroom concepts and activities.
3.TT.1.3 Use technology tools to present data and information (multimedia, audio and visual recording, online collaboration tools, etc.).
Writing: W.3.10 Write routinely over extended time frames (time for research, reflection, and revision) and shorter time frames (a single sitting or a day or two) for a range of discipline-specific tasks, purposes, and audiences.
Brief Description of Lesson/Task/Activity: This lesson is designed to challenge students who demonstrate mastery of understanding fractions as numbers (unit fractions, partitioning…etc.) and a strong understanding of fractions as a number on the number line. It integrates technology, writing, and mathematics (focus on fractions) through the use of a RAFT writing activity.
Type of Differentiation for AIGs (include all that apply): x Enrichment x Extension Acceleration
Adaptations for AIGs: Content x Process x Product
Explanation of How Resource is Appropriate for AIGs: This activity gives the students choice that can be based on learning preferences and provides variety in terms of process and product. The process goals include creative thinking, problem solving, and critical thinking. Additionally, the students are given the opportunity to explore various technology tools to present their thinking thus further developing their 21st Century Skills.
Needed Resources/Materials
•  Internet access/Computer access
•  RAFT activity
Sources:
•  http://www.mathsnacks.com/pearlDiver.php
•  www.xtranormal.com
•  www.animoto.com
•  www.glogster.com
•  www.voicethread.com
TEACHER NOTES: NA

NCDPI AIG Curriculum Resource Outline

STAGE ONE: ENGAGE
Pose the questions: Why is technology important to learn? How can technology impact student learning? Allow students time to discuss the questions in small group and then as a whole group. After a brief discussion, have the students explore and play “Pearl Diver” at www.mathsnacks.com. This particular game focuses on identifying numbers on a number line and allows the players to apply their understanding of fractions as a number in a different context. Each level progresses in challenge and complexity while scaffolding learning throughout each level played successfully. Once the students have had ample time to explore the game, have the students evaluate the educational game- specific to the learning task (identifying numbers on a number line). Point out to the students that they will complete a RAFT activity that will integrate technology.
STAGE TWO: ELABORATE
All writers have to consider various aspects before every writing assignment including role, audience, format, and topic. The students are going to structure their writing around these elements- Role of the writer: Who are you?, Audience: For whom is this to be written?, Format: What format am I to use (essay, speech, letter…etc.)?, and Topic: What am I to write about? (RAFT). It may be helpful to display the elements on chart paper or a bulletin board for future reference. If RAFT writing is new to the students, a mini lesson needs to occur prior to beginning the activity. Possible ideas for mini-lesson(s): display a completed RAFT example on the overhead and discuss the key elements as a class and/or demonstrate, model, and "think aloud" a sample RAFT exercise with the aid of the class.
Present the RAFT activity to the students. Brainstorm additional topic ideas, and write down the suggestions listing roles, audiences, and formats associated with each topic (if time allows). Example of how to read the first prompt for the RAFT activity: You are a unit fraction. Create a short movie to show how and why the unit fraction and the number one go together.
It is important that students attend to precision while completing the RAFT activity. In other words, the students should demonstrate strong mathematical communication skills and use clear and precise language. The students should complete a self-assessment addressing the process as well as the math illustrated within the final products.
STAGE THREE: EVALUATE
The final product should:
·  reflect accurate mathematical thinking and reasoning
·  include clear and concise language
·  maintain consistent ideas relevant to the role, audience, and topic being addressed
·  format accurately portrayed- using specified technology tool to present
TEACHER NOTES: NA

PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF NORTH CAROLINA State Board of Education | Department of Public Instruction AIG ~ IRP Academically and/or Intellectually Gifted Instructional Resources Project

Fraction Creativity Math/Grade 3

RAFT Activity

Role / Audience / Format / Topic
Unit Fraction / One (1) / Movie (using Animoto) / WE GO TOGETHER…
Fraction / Number Line / Picture book (using Voicethread) / OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO!
Fraction / Whole Number / Poster (using Glogster) / MY, HOW WE ARE SO SIMILAR, YET SO DIFFERENT!
Numerator / Denominator / Debate (using Xtranormal) / WHICH ONE OF US IS MOST IMPORTANT?

PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF NORTH CAROLINA State Board of Education | Department of Public Instruction

AIG ~ IRP Academically and/or Intellectually Gifted Instructional Resources Project