Quesadilla Fraction Fiesta!

4th Grade

Lesson
60 minutes

Quesadilla Fraction Fiesta!

Jami Butler

CCSS.Math.Content.4.NF.A.2

CCSS.Math.Content.4.NF.B.3

CCSS.Math.Content.4.NF.B.4

Purpose

The purpose of this lesson is to provide students with a hands-on experience that deepens their understanding of fractions through the engaging context of preparing and dividing quesadillas. By physically manipulating the quesadilla pieces, students will explore fraction equivalence, comparison, and the relationship between fractions and whole numbers. This approach encourages collaborative learning and critical thinking, as students justify their reasoning using visual models and symbols, aligning with key mathematical standards.

Learning goals

Students will develop an understanding of fractions by dividing quesadillas into parts, creating visual fraction models, and comparing fractions using symbols and number lines. They will enhance their ability to justify fraction comparisons by relating them to benchmark fractions like 1/2. Through collaborative activities, they will apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios, reinforcing their comprehension of fraction equivalence and multiplication of fractions by whole numbers.

Standards

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 - Understand a fraction a/b with a > 1 as a sum of fractions 1/b.
CCSS.Math.Content.4.NF.B.4 - Apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication to multiply a fraction by a whole number.

Week 1	Day 1
Activities	Kick off the lesson with a 'Fraction Feast' where students prepare quesadillas as a class. Discuss the essential questions about how dividing a quesadilla can help understand fractions. Introduce the concept of using quesadilla pieces to explore fractions, setting the stage for hands-on activities. Ensure students understand the goal of using the quesadillas to visualize fractions and justify comparisons. (15 minutes) Guide students in dividing their quesadillas into halves, quarters, and eighths. Have them physically separate the pieces to create visual models of different fractions. Encourage students to explore how different divisions result in different fractions. By manipulating real-world objects, students can better grasp the concept of fraction equivalence and comparison. (15 minutes) In pairs, students use their quesadilla pieces to construct a fraction number line. They will arrange pieces in order from smallest to largest, comparing them to benchmark fractions like 1/2. This activity helps students visualize the relative size of fractions and reinforces their understanding of fractions in a sequential context. (15 minutes) Students create a visual presentation using either paper or digital tools to demonstrate how they divided their quesadilla into fractions. They will compare different fractions, record their results with symbols, and justify their conclusions using models. This assessment activity allows students to articulate their understanding and reasoning in a creative format. (15 minutes)
Deliverables
Preparation