Equivalent fractions activity

Equivalent Fractions

So my kids were having difficulty with equivalent fractions.  So I came up with an activity for them. I avoid making copies, if possible, so here is what I did:

First I had the kids trace a circle in the middle of a large page.  I used half a sheet of construction paper.   Then they divided the circle into eight equal portions.  We then put benchmark fractions into each eighth.  Benchmark fractions are common fractions kids should have in their heads.  Some examples are 1/2, 1/3, 2/3, 1/4, 3/4, 1/5, etc.. Knowing benchmark fractions helps kids develop  better fraction sense.

Then we labeled the chart "Equivalent Fractions".  That was the first clue they had as to what we were really doing.  Then we took blank newsprint and folded it into eight parts.  Then each student cut the paper into its eight blank parts.

Then we used paper clips and our own pencils to act as spinners.  When they landed on a benchmark fraction, they had to find an equivalent fraction.  They then used the newsprint to make a model. They also had to show how they figured out the equivalent fraction.  Here is one that is finished.

I hope this is helpful for you.  My kids had a lot of fun doing it and they reinforced their understanding of benchmark and equivalent fractions.  I avoid making copies if possible- lack of paper and the machines are always down- so this worked great!  Hope it's helpful for you.

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