Fractions. Fractions. Fractions. A word that my students hear and automatically assume that they are not going to grasp the new skill they are about to learn. This fear of fractions can stem from a plethora of reasons. Still, my goal is to support students, ensure they gain comfort and confidence in using fractions, and help them learn to enjoy using fractions instead of attaching a negative connotation to them.
Using coordinate planes with fractional lengths is typically a new skill for 6th graders in my classroom. I begin by reviewing how fractions look on a horizontal and vertical number line. Make sure when discussing coordinate planes, you are connecting concepts of these number lines to the x and y axes. You may even see students have their “light bulb moment.”
Is this activity right for your classroom?
This simple activity was designed to provide more practice opportunities for students to work with coordinate planes with fractional lengths. When creating hands-on math experiences in the classroom, I focus on two questions.
- How will this contribute to my students’ overall learning?
- Will this enrich or hinder student learning?
- Will this take away from instructional time that could be used for something else?
- Is this enjoyable for students while simultaneously learning?
- What are the requirements for preparation as a teacher?
- What are my personal costs for creating this activity?
- How long will it take for me to set this up/create?
- Can I use it from year to year?
Considering these questions as an educator allows you to more accurately and confidently decide if this activity is the best fit for your classroom.
Materials
- Coordinate Plane with Fractional Lengths Print Outs
- Baking sheets
- I bought 5 of them at the dollar store for $6
- you can also use any magnetic board
- Paper
- Laminating Sheets
- I laminated them to give an opportunity for students to label each fractional length with a dry-erase marker if needed
- Magnets
- I splurged a bit on these magnets, but work with what you have!
- Tape
- Scissors
Instructions
- Print, laminate, and cut coordinate grids and ordered pair cards
- I printed the ordered pair cards on different colors of paper to differentiate between the easy fractions/decimals.
- Tape the 1/2 coordinate plane to one side of the baking sheet and the 1/4 coordinate plane to the other side.
Ways to use this resource
Teacher Center
I used this resource as a teacher center with groups of 4-5 students. I started by asking students what they felt more comfortable with, decimals or fractions. We practice plotting points together using the magnets to accurately represent the ordered pair listed on the cards. Then I gave each student three cards to plot and checked their answers
Independent Center
By using photo storage bins, place a few ordered pair cards and magnet in. When students are in this center, have them take a baking sheet and bin and plot the points on the card. If they finish early you can have them switch bins with another student
Battle Ship
Have students work in partners for this activity. Each student will choose a different magnet for their ships, to mark off where they hit, and areas that they missed. Have students write down the ordered pairs that represent their ships. Students will go back and fourth to try to sink each other ships by stating an ordered pair!
Race!
Have students work in groups or partners. Place a stack of the ordered pair cards between the students. Flip over the top card. The student who is able to plot the point the fastest gets to keep the card. The student with the most cards at the end of the game wins!
Download the Print Outs Here!
Kait's Kreations 
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