Fraction Fusion

A 5-day instructional sequence designed to scaffold fraction addition. Students progress from combining fractions with like denominators to finding equivalent fractions, modeling unlike denominators, drawing their own fraction bars, and solving realistic math challenges.

MSMichelle Sosnoff

Same Denominator Spark

Students explore adding fractions with like denominators using visual fraction bars and circle models. They learn to combine shaded parts while keeping the denominator (total parts in one whole) the same.

Equivalent Fraction Bridge

Students master finding equivalent fractions by dividing fraction models and multiplying/dividing the numerator and denominator. This serves as the bridge to adding unlike denominators.

Unlike Denominator Fusion

Students combine fractions with unlike denominators by converting one or both fractions into equivalent fractions. They use pre-partitioned and pre-shaded models to visualize how unlike sizes fuse together under a common denominator.

Fraction Bar Blueprint

Students learn the art of drawing their own fraction bars to add unlike denominator fractions, developing spatial reasoning and a deeper grasp of fraction size.

Fraction Fusion Showdown

A culminating review and assessment lesson. Students work in teams to solve a "Fraction Fusion Showdown" escape-room style challenge, followed by an individual exit ticket to show mastery.