Rethinking How We Teach & Learn Fractions

Key takeaways

Students often struggle with fractions due to a lack of conceptual understanding and an overemphasis on rote memorization.
Unit fractions serve as a foundational concept in understanding fractions, allowing students to see them as quantities.
Small instructional moves can empower educators and enhance classroom learning experiences.
Fostering a safe and risk-taking environment is essential for cultivating confidence in mathematics among students.
The upcoming virtual summit offers valuable insights and strategies for educators looking to improve their teaching methods regarding fractions.

Summary

Understanding the Struggles with Fractions

The podcast begins by addressing the common struggles students face with fractions. Both hosts express curiosity about why these challenges exist and suggest starting education on fractions with unit fractions to build a stronger foundation. They emphasize the need for teaching that transcends rote memorization and focuses on conceptual understanding.

Guests and Their Insights

Hosts Kyle Pierce and John Orr welcome Tara Flynn and Shelley Yearley, Canadian authors of 'Rethinking Fractions,' who share their experiences and practices related to teaching fractions. They recount their own experiences in mathematics education and how those moments shaped their views on teaching strategies.

Unit Fractions: A Transformative Approach

The discussion pivots to the concept of unit fractions, defined as any fraction with a numerator of one (e.g., 1/2, 1/3). Tara and Shelley share research findings that suggest focusing on unit fractions can dramatically improve students' understanding of fractions. They highlight the importance of viewing fractions not just as numbers but also as quantities, advocating for a more hands-on approach to learning about fractions through counting.

Empowering Educators Through Simple Strategies

The episode also talks about small instructional moves that can empower teachers. Tara and Shelley discuss how these strategies, such as using manipulatives and visual representations, can help build students’ confidence in handling fractions. They argue that developing an understanding of the unit fractions is crucial for instilling a sense of mathematical ownership in students.

Upcoming Virtual Summit

Tara and Shelley preview their session at the upcoming MakeMath Moments Virtual Summit, where they will provide strategies for focusing on unit fractions. The session aims to equip educators with actionable techniques that can easily be integrated into their classrooms.

Encouraging Risk-Taking in Learning

The conversation touches on fostering a safe environment for students to take risks in their thinking about mathematics. Educators are encouraged to shift from a focus on procedural learning to a more conceptual understanding, which enhances the learning experience for students.

Concluding Thoughts

The hosts highlight the significance of ongoing professional development and creating a supportive community for educators. They underscore that teachers should approach learning with openness and less fear, particularly in relation to fractions.

Show notes

Why do so many students struggle with fractions and how do we make math concepts stick beyond rote memorization?

This episode is for educators looking to move beyond the frustration and confusion of teaching and learning fractions. We speak with Tara Flynn and Shelley Yearley, two co-authors of the book Rethinking Fractions.

Tune in now and learn how a deeper understanding of fractions and a focus on student ownership can make math more meaningful and engaging.

You’ll:

Gain insights from educators who’ve experienced both the pitfalls and rewards of teaching fractions in new and transformative ways.
Discover practical strategies to shift from memorization to conceptual understanding, especially with unit fractions and counting strategies.
Learn about upcoming opportunities to engage with like-minded educators and access resources that make teaching fractions approachable and effective.

Tune in to this episode of Making Math Moments That Matter to revolutionize your approach to teaching fractions and inspire deeper mathematical understanding in your students!

Show Notes Page

How are you ensuring that you support those educators who need a nudge to spark a focus on growing their pedagogical-content knowledge?

What about opportunities for those who are eager and willing to elevate their practice, but do not have the support?

Book a call with our District Improvement Program Team to learn how we can not only help you craft, refine and implement your district math learning goals, but also provide all of the professional learning supports your educators need to grow at the speed of their learning.

Book a short conversation with our team now.

Love the show? Text us your big takeaway!

We’ve partnered with them to help bring more collaborative learning into classrooms. Whether you’re supporting one class or math instruction across multiple schools, find the right way to get started at wipebook.com/mathmoments.

Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.