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2.   Fraction Game:
Understanding concepts of equivalency
using a digital number line

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	SREB Readiness Indicator Compute (add, subtract, multiply and divide) fluently with integers, fractions, decimals, percents, and numbers written in scientific and exponential form, with and without technology. > Additional indicators
	Skills Understand the whole/part relationship Compute with fractions Determine fractional equivalencies Estimate with fractions Compare and order fractions
	Figure 1: The Fraction Game game board (Click to test this tool) NCTM disclaimer

Overview

In NCTM's Fraction Game (Figure 1), players use knowledge of equivalent fractions and other computation skills to move their pieces across the game board. Students select a card from the card stack and then use the value of the fraction to advance their pieces a combined distance equal to (or less than) the value shown on the card. Students also work on basic problem-solving skills as they strategically try to use the fewest moves to get their pieces across the board. The game is available in two versions: students can play by themselves or with a partner.

The Value of This Technology

The Fraction Game could be played on a black board or even a piece of paper. The value of the technology in the online applet is that it provides students with immediate feedback embedded in the context of the game. If a student tries to move pieces too far, the last piece "jumps back" to its starting place. This built-in feedback encourages students to experiment independently, allowing the teacher to circulate throughout the class for purposes of observation and assessment.

Look in the Classroom

Ms. Rosensweig wants to assess the conceptual understanding and skills that her students already have about rational numbers.
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