Fraction Number Searches

Learning Goals:

  • Read, represent, and compare simple fractions
  • Communicate mathematical thinking orally and visually

The Challenge:

Discuss the following image with your child – what fractions do you see represented?
How many different fractions can you find?

A triangle grid within a large triangular outline (a total of 64 triangles contained within.) The shape is also divided into different coloured fractional parts in a variety of sizes: A large purple triangle and a red parallelogram that are 16 triangular units each, a blue and orange rhombus that are 8 triangular units each, and 3 smaller yellow triangles and one smaller green triangle that are 4 triangular units each.

Ex., “I see that the purple triangle would be worth one-quarter of the whole shape”
“I see that the blue rhombus is one-half of the purple triangle”

Questions and Prompts to Support your Child:

  • Which part or fraction did you notice first? Why do you think that was?
  • How do you know that colour represents that fraction?
  • What is the largest fraction you see? What is the smallest?

Extensions & Adaptations:

  • If having trouble seeing fractions, start with whole numbers – “if each triangle unit is worth 1, what numbers do you see represented? Ex., “The blue rhombus would be worth 8.”
  • Create your own “fraction number search” designs – using triangles instead of square units allows us to see thirds and sixths more clearly!