Let’s talk about adding fractions. You could give students problems such as 1/2 + 1/2 and 3/4 + 1/4 to solve. Most will get the correct answers, but introducing adding fractions using word problems is powerful. It gives students an opportunity to strengthen their understanding of fractions.

The focus of these word problems is for students to show their work. Why? Rich conversations will occur. They will be building a solid foundation that will help them once they move on to adding and subtracting fraction with unlike denominators. The word problems listed below include fractions with like denominators.

Practice Problem #1: Whole-Group Instruction

Your goal for this first problem is to get students to show their thinking through models.

1. Give each student a copy of the word problem
2. Display the word problem on a projector or write it on the board/chart paper
3. Students must draw a model to solve
4. Select students to share their thinking

Problem 1: Each guest will get 1/2 of a sub sandwich. If there are 6 guests, how many sub sandwiches are needed?

Practice Problems #2: Focused Practice

Encourage students to draw a model to solve this second word problem.  Once student have found the solution, encourage students to write an equation to match their drawing. Again, select students to share their thinking.

Problem 2: Julian buys 4 yards of fabric to make wallets. It takes 2/3 yard of fabric to make one wallet. How many wallets can Julian make with 4 yards of fabric?

Practice Problem #3: Exit Ticket

Use this last problem as an exit ticket. Students are to complete this on their own without assistance. Encourage student to draw a model and to write an equation. Collect and use this as a way to group students for future lessons during small groups.

Problem 3: Ivan wants to make brownies. It takes 3/4 cup of cocoa powder to make one batch of brownies. How many cups of cocoa power will Ivan need to make 3 batches of brownies?

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Continue Your Instruction!

Now that you’ve introduced adding fractions, your students are ready to practice. Click on each image to learn more.

Small Group Instruction: Complete these math booklets during your guided math groups. There are 3 booklets per topic, so you know your students will receive plenty of practice.

Math Games: Each game set comes with 3 games per topic! Students keep track of their work on one recording sheet. These games are part of a larger bundle that follow the same format. They are available third, fourth, and fifth grade.

What’s next?

Want more fractions resources? Check out the following blog posts 🙂

• An introduction to Fractions
• Fractions on a Number Line
• Comparing Fractions
• Equivalent Fractions