I was a hodge podge of a disaster when it came to teaching fractions on a number line.
The way I used to teach this skill to my 2nd and 3rd graders was not very effective, and quite frankly, all over the place.
I honestly didn’t know the most effective ways and strategies for teaching fractions on a number line.
So, after years of learning, researching, professional development and actually implementing the strategies in my own classroom, I can confidently say that I’ve finally figured out the effective and engaging ways to teach fractions on a number line, so that my students actually understand the concept and can truly master the skill! Praise the Lord.
And that’s what I’m going to share with you today, right here in this blog post, in addition to some fun and effective activities.
Let’s go!
Use Fraction Bars as a Visual Support when Introducing the Fractions on a Number Line Skill
Print a fractions bar template and have your students color the fraction bars. The template you see pictured above can be found by clicking here – they are part of this Fractions on a Number Line Activity set. Have them cut the strips and keep them in their individual ziplock baggies. You can then use the fraction bar strips during small group or whole group instruction. There are so many ways to use these fraction bars!
Use a Number Line Sheet Template to Teach and Reinforce this Skill
I like to put number line sheets in a sheet protector or sleeve, and practice plotting fractions on a number line using the fraction strips and a dry erase marker.
Alternatively, students can use a pencil to plot various fractions on the provided number line worksheets.
Here’s what that would LOOK and SOUND like:
Teacher says: “Use your fraction bars to make five-eighths above the number line that’s split into eighths.”
Student finds the eighths fraction pieces and places them above the number line. Then, student plots and labels five-eighths on the number line.
Teacher says: “Use your fraction bars to make seven-eighths.”
Student repeats same steps above – they would find the eighths fraction pieces and place them above the number line. Then would plot and level seven-eighths on the number line.
Teacher repeats with various fractions to give students multiple opportunities for practice.
Use Fractions on a Number Line Booklet + Notes for Whole Group Mini-Lesson or Small Group Lesson
This is my favorite way to introduce a new skill. I love giving my students booklets for each math topic – it helps guide my lesson so that I know I’m staying on track and teaching my students the exact steps that are needed.
It also provides my students with a more structured learning session and allows them something tangible for them to refer back to. It’s also nice for parents to see the strategies we are using in the classroom to teach certain skills.
Use a JUMBO Number Line {so much fun!}
I use these amazing jumbo number lines during my small group math instructional time. I have students work in pairs or independently to place the fraction cards on the number line. Then, I have my students label their number line on the provided recording sheet. Talk about instant engagement – this was definitely a hit!
I go into more detail HERE on how exactly I use these jumbo number lines.
Use Cut and Paste Activities to Practice Placing Fractions on a Number Line
After I’ve worked with my students in small group with the jumbo number lines, I will then give them the printable sets for them to work on independently.
For the rest of the week, I would give them these cut and paste worksheets for them to work on during one of their math rotations.
Click here for the worksheets.
Use Task Cards to Identify Fractions on a Number Line
I love posting task cards around my classroom for students to work on during their independent (at your seat) math rotation. Sometimes I even use the same task cards during my small group instruction. Even though the students have already completed the task cards independently, sometimes my lower math group needs the extra reinforcement and practice.
Good Ol’ Worksheets – Placing Fractions on a Number Line Worksheets and Independent Practice
There’s nothing wrong with good ol’ worksheets for students to practice plotting and identifying various fractions! I use worksheets during the ‘independent work’ math rotation. I believe that students need that pencil/paper skills practice to reinforce their learning. You can find different worksheets inside the Fractions Activity Pack – just click here for the worksheets.
Fractions on a Number Line Activities for 2nd Grade, 3rd Grade and 4th Grade
You can find all the activities in this blog post by clicking here. I hope the activities help!
