Colorful Fractions

Students create tables coloring in the cells to make fractions. Each worksheet should have at least three to four tables. This lesson is to be done after fractions, percents, and ratio have been taught. The directions should be placed by the computer so the children can follow them step by step.

Component:     Number Sense
                         Functional Reading

Objectives:     The students will relate fractions to percents.
                        The student will solve realistic problems involving combinations of operations using fractions and     
                        percents.
                        The student will read and follow a list of directions.

Materials:     computers, printer, paper, Microsoft Word or Works

Procedure:     1) Working in pairs students will make their own worksheets.
                       2) Select Microsoft Work or Works.
                       3) Click "table" at the top of the toolbar menu.
                       4) Go to "insert" and choose "table."
                       5) Choose number of columns and number of rows. ex. 5x2
                       6) Click "OK."
                       7) Place cursor in one of the cells.
                       8) Click "Format," then "Borders and Shading."
                       9) Click "Shading."
                       10) Choose a color.
                       11) Click "Apply to," then "cell."
                       12) Click "OK."
                       13) Repeat steps 6-11 a few more times using the same color, placing the colors
                             in various parts of the table.
                       14) If an error is made press the back arrow.
                       15) When finished click "enter" a couple of times and type a few questions, leaving
                              room for the answers.
                       16) The teacher checks the work and the students then print two copies of the table.
                       17) The students write the answers on a separate piece of paper.

Examples of Questions

What fraction of the table is the color purple?
What fraction is white?
What % is purple?
What % is white?
What is the ratio of purple to white?
What is the ratio of white to purple?

Evaluation:     Each student is to receive a worksheet and answer the questions on it. He or she  
                        may use crayons to help in answering the questions or the test can be made from 
                        the computer by the teacher with the colors already on it. If equivalent fractions 
                        have been taught, that can be added to the test. Use the same size cell space 
                        in the charts for clarity.  

Homework:     Make another table on the computer and use fractions with larger denominators
                         such as 24th or 32nd. Write five questions regarding the table. Example: What is an
                         equivalent fraction for 12/24?

Extensions:     *Make a table with many cells such as 24 or 32. Using the color chart on
                           the computer, color in the boxes making a design or picture.
                         *Students can learn how to play Fraction Games.
                         *Students can also play other exciting fraction games at Fresh Backed Fractions.