The University of Arizona: IMPACTS-MS Fractions and Fraction Operations – for Middle School Mathematics

Fractions and fraction operations are the foundations for middle school mathematics. They are essential for proportional reasoning, algebra, and probability, yet they are incredibly difficult to learn and teach. In middle schools, it is important to understand students’ previous experiences with fractions in order to develop their algebraic reasoning. Fractions operations intentionally and systematically grow from work in 3rd grade, culminating in fluency with operations with rational numbers in 7th grade. How do we help students move along this path? What strategies will build the concepts clearly and understandably? How do we develop and integrate fluency while also addressing other middle school math topics? Come and explore the developmental path and strategies to move students to deeper understanding of fractions and fraction operations.