Teaching Fractions in First Grade

Teaching One Half and One Fourth Fractions in First Grade

Hey, y'all! Are you getting ready for your next fractions unit? This is one of the easiest concepts to teach in first grade and this math workshop unit will make it fun and exciting, too. In first grade, we work on identifying one half and one fourth, or one quarter, fractions. With games, centers, and whole class lessons, the kids are pros by the end of the week! 

On Monday, we introduce the language of fractions: half, fourth, quarter, numerator, denominator, etc. We talk about how when we break something up into more pieces, those pieces get smaller. Then, we sort fractions into halves and fourths.

Tuesday through Thursday, students visit a series of stations practicing identifying halves and fourths with task cards and games.

This unit includes lesson plans, student direction cards, task cards, games, and recording sheets. It is a print and go unit. The simplicity makes it a teacher's best friend. The centers and games makes it a favorite among firsties. 

On Friday, we come together for another whole class lesson. There are a couple of options for this one. I usually grab a package of fun sized M&Ms or Skittles and we practice finding the denominator (the total number of candy in our baggies) and numerators (how many of each color we have) for our candies. This lesson is technically above grade level, but I've done this lesson with K-3 and they've always latched on immediately. Candy can do amazing things. ;)

For more information on this unit, head over to my Teachers Pay Teachers store and check it out here.  While you're there be sure to follow my store and check out the year long math bundle. It has everything you need for a successful year in math in first grade. 

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have a wonderful week. I'll talk to you soon. 

Stay cozy,