Fix Common Fraction Misconceptions
Building a strong understanding of fractions is essential for students’ long-term success in math, but teaching these concepts effectively can be challenging. Explore the fractions learning toolkit for classroom-tested strategies, games, and activities to help your students move beyond memorization and truly understand fractions.
Common fractions misconceptions
Students often struggle with a few key fraction misconceptions that can hold back their understanding. What are some of the most common misunderstandings during fractions learning?
Fractions misunderstanding #1:
Thinking “bigger denominators make bigger fractions.”
Solution: Help students understand the value of the denominator
Fractions misunderstanding #2:
Treating the numerators and denominators as whole numbers when adding fractions
Solution: Emphasize unit fractions early and often
Fractions misunderstanding #3:
Thinking fractions are best represented using pizzas and pies
Solution: Incorporate number lines when teaching fraction concepts
Teaching strategies that work
Wondering how to teach fractions so students truly understand (and enjoy) them? Overcome common misconceptions with clear, research-proven strategies.
Make fractions fun with games
Fractions don’t have to be scary. Make fraction time fun with game-based learning and interactive activities that engage students and reinforce understanding.
Try these visual fraction games
Have a few extra minutes in your math block? Introduce these easy fraction games that don’t feel like work.
- Fractions bingo: Excite your students with a classic class-wide bingo game as they practice recognizing fractions.
- Fraction memory match: Use cards showing a fraction and the fraction on a number line for students to match pairs—great for centers or small-group review.
- Roll and represent: Have students roll dice to generate numerator and denominator values, then model the fraction using manipulatives or a number line on a whiteboard.
- Human number line: Get students moving as they practice placing fractions on a number line with index cards—perfect for quick breaks before dismissal or lunch line-up time.
Engage with interactive activities and tools
Bring fractions to life with interactive fraction activities and hands-on experiences that help students connect math concepts to real-world experiences.
- Scavenger hunt: Help students spot fractions in their everyday life in the school hallways or on the playground.
- Game-based learning: Incorporate digital learning tools like Frax to teach fraction concepts in an individualized way, packed with rewards, customization, avatars, and engaging storylines.
- Group discussion: Offline activities are an easy way to foster group discussions about fraction concepts. Frax offline activities help students apply the fractions knowledge they are learning online to the classroom context with peers.
Get the complete fractions toolkit
Download the one-stop toolkit to simplify your fractions instruction today.
One-stop resource hub for teaching fractions
Get everything you need to teach fractions in one place. This toolkit includes classroom teaching tips for some of the most confusing topics, including fractions on the number line, equivalent fractions, comparing fractions, and more. Plus, find interactive test prep activities and game-based solutions to make fractions engaging.
Make fractions fun with Frax
Frax stops the fraction struggle through an adaptive, game-based system that helps students build a conceptual understanding of fractions. Frax’s zero-entry program allows all students to improve their fraction knowledge and confidence as they complete carefully scaffolded missions.
Interested in learning more about how Frax supports student learning? Discover how Frax can support your various classroom needs!