6th Grade  Lesson 90 minutes

Fraction Frenzy: Slice & Solve!

Vincent
Anchor Standard 9
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
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Purpose

Students will explore the concept of fractions by creating a visual representation of their daily routines, promoting self-directed learning and critical reflection. Through this project, students will deepen their understanding of fractions and how they apply to real-world contexts, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. By presenting their work to peers, students will engage in critical thinking and problem-solving, considering innovative approaches to represent and analyze their activities using fractions.

Learning goals

Students will explore the concept of fractions by creating a visual representation of their daily routines, using fractions to depict the time spent on various activities. They will develop critical thinking skills by analyzing and comparing their routines with peers, fostering a deeper understanding of how fractions can illustrate real-life scenarios. Through self-directed learning, students will utilize feedback and self-reflection to refine their presentations, enhancing their sense of identity and belonging within the classroom community.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] Anchor Standard 9 - Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create a personalized visual representation of their daily routines using fractions, such as a pie chart or timeline, to illustrate how they allocate time to various activities. Each student will present their visual to the class, explaining the significance of each fraction in relation to their daily life. This project will culminate in a class exhibition where students exchange ideas and provide feedback on each other's work, fostering a deeper understanding of fractions through real-world application.

Launch

Begin with an interactive group activity where students create a large, collaborative mural on butcher paper that visually represents a typical school day. Students will use different colors to shade sections of the mural, each color representing a fraction of their day dedicated to various activities (e.g., classes, lunch, recess). As they work, students will discuss how they divide their time and how fractions can represent these divisions. This activity will spark curiosity and set the stage for exploring how fractions are used in everyday life.

Exhibition

Students will present their visual representations of daily routines using fractions to the class. Each student will explain their chart or timeline, highlighting how fractions illustrate their activities and time management. This presentation will foster a collaborative environment where students can engage in discussions, ask questions, and provide feedback to peers.