This task was used with fourth graders to develop reasoning skill with fractional equivalence related to adding fractions. The task requires students to demonstrate an understanding that unlike fractions must be converted to equivalent forms to be added.
Microsoft Word version: 4_NF_Fractions_Problem_Critique_DifferentDenominators
PDF version: 4_NF_Fractions_Problem_Critique_DifferentDenominators
I used this task during a fourth grade unit on fractions. I wanted to measure students’ understanding of equivalence. The objective was for students to demonstrate their understanding of equivalent fractions using a graphic organizer for a mathematical argument. Students struggled to figure out how they could fill in the evidence section of the graphic organizer.
Microsoft Word version: 4_NF_Fractions_Problem_Critique
PDF version: 4_NF_Fractions_Problem_Critique
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Carlos’ Thoughts is a task created for fourth graders working on fractions. The task asks students to crtique a comparison of a mixed number to an improper fraction. The task uses argumentation language including claim, evidence and warrant. This task gets at a common error in reading mixed numbers versus improper fractions in which students see a whole number in front of a fraction and assume it is larger than the improper fraction. The task may also display a student’s ability to convert between mixed numbers and improper fractions.
Microsoft Word version: 4_NF_Fractions_Problem_Critique_CarlosThoughts
PDF version: 4_NF_Fractions_Problem_Critique_CarlosThoughts
A Shaded Rectangle is a fractions problem involving a picture for fourth graders. Students are given a rectangle divided into sections, with some sections shaded, and a given student response stating how much of the rectangle is shaded. Argumentation language is used when asking students to critique the response, create a claim, and explain their thinking on whether the student response is correct.
Microsoft Word version: 4_NF_Fractions_Problem_Critique_AShadedRectangle
PDF version: 4_NF_Fractions_Problem_Critique_AShadedRectangle
This task was intended for grade 4 students. The main objective was to have the students demonstrate understanding of equivalent fractions. The task required them to construct an argument which would help explain whether they agreed or disagreed with the claim.
Microsoft Word version: 4_NF_Fractions_BriefArgument_Construct
PDF version: 4_NF_Fractions_BriefArgument_Construct
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