Fascinating Fractions
An Internet WebQuest on Fractions

created by Shannon Smith

Introduction | The Task | The Process & Resources | Conclusion | HyperText Dictionary

 

Introduction

Fractions are used every day of our lives in one way or another. Following recipes, running track (quarter of a mile), taking or dispensing medications, and of course in math class. What would happen if a recipe asked for 1/2 cup of milk and all you had was a 1/4 cup measuring cup? By adding fractions you could figure out that you need to fill your 1/4 cup two times to get 1/2 cup. In this exercise, you and three classmates will learn the basics about fractions.

 

The Quest

How do you complete the four main functions of fractions, and when can you use this information to help you in everyday life?

 

The Process and Resources

In this WebQuest you will be working together with a group of students in class. Each group will answer the Task or Quest(ion). As a member of the group you will explore Webpages dealing with Fractions. Because these are real Webpages we're tapping into, not things made just for schools, the reading level might challenge you. Feel free to use the online Webster dictionary or one in your classroom.

You'll begin with everyone in your group getting some background before dividing into roles where people on your team become experts on one part of the topic.

Phase 1 - Background: Something for Everyone

Use the Internet information linked below to review some basics about fractions. Once you are refreshed you can move on to the task. For the equivalent fractions site choose 'Easy' to play the game.

·       Equivalent Fractions - This is a game that will refresh your knowledge of equivalent fractions.

·       Reducing Fractions Review - This is a game to help refresh your memory on reducing fractions.

·       Reducing Fractions - This has more practice reducing fractions.

Phase 2 - Looking Deeper from Different Perspectives

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Individuals or pairs from your larger WebQuest team will explore one of the roles below.

2. Read through the files linked to your group. If you print out the files, underline the passages that you feel are the most important. If you look at the files on the computer, copy sections you feel are important by dragging the mouse across the passage and copying / pasting it into a word processor or other writing software.

3. The practice questions are great ways to test how well you are grasping the concept.

Addition Addict

Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions specifically related to Addition Addict:

1. What does it mean to find the lowest common denominator?
2. What is the first step to adding two fractions together?
3. What are the steps to follow when adding fractions?

·       Addition Help - This site gives simple instructions about adding fractions.

·       More Addition Help - Try this test to see if you are right!

Subtraction Stud(ess)

Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions specifically related to Subtraction Expert:

1. What does it mean to find the lowest common denominator?
2. What is the first step in subtraction of fractions?
3. What steps do you follow to subtract fractions?

·       Subtraction Help - This site gives simple instructions about subtracting fractions.

·       More Subtraction Help - Try this to test your answers to see if you are right!

Multiplication Master

Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions specifically related to Multiplication Wizard :

1. What steps do you follow to multiply fractions?
2. After you multiply the fractions, what must you look for to make sure you have a final answer?

·       Multiplication Help - This site gives simple instructions about multiplying fractions.

·       More Multiplication Help - Try this to test your answers to see if you are right!

Division Doodler

Use the Internet information linked below to answer these questions specifically related to Division Doodler:

1. What is your first step in dividing fractions?
2. What are the remaining steps?
3. What does 'invert' mean?
4. After you divide the fractions, what must you look for to make sure you have a final answer?

·       Division Help - This site has simple instuctions about how to divide fractions.

·       More Division Help - Try this to test your answers to see if you are right!

Phase 3 - Debating, Discussing, and Reaching Consensus

You have all learned about a different part of Fractions. Now you and your group have come back to the larger WebQuest team with expertise gained by searching from one perspective. You must discuss each of your topics to ready yourselves for the next step. Each of you will bring certain information to the discussion. Use information from the Webpages you explored to convince your teammates of the correct procedures. Your WebQuest team should each have knowledge and understanding of each of the four sections.

Phase 4 - Real World Feedback

Now that you have each learned one section of the fraction lesson, you will come together to tackle a quiz to see how much you have learned. Remember to revert back to each of your sections for help if needed. Discuss the questions as a whole group so everyone learns each section well. Finally, while you are taking the quiz, be thinking about ways we use fractions every day. This will help you with the final question. Have fun!

Your Contact is: Mrs. Shannon Smith

Conclusion

Now you all know a lot more. Nice work. You should be proud of yourselves! Now you can use what you've learned to solve problems on a daily basis. What else can you think of that requires the knowledge you have just learned? Share this information with others. Remember, learning never stops.