What’s the Pattern? Fraction Addition

Objective

By analyzing examples and spotting patterns, students will learn to add fractions.

⚠️ Students should have experience with converting equivalent fractions before attempting this lesson.

Steps

1. First, students look for a pattern when adding like fractions. They try to solve an unfinished example.
2. Next, we break their pattern by including examples with unlike fractions. Students will attempt to update their pattern and then solve an unfinished example.
3. I reveal the solutions and then leave students with three practice problems.
4. After showing the solutions to the practice problems, I leave students with a triple fraction! (Psst. The answer is 7/8.)

Resources

• Worksheet Part 1 (PDF)
• Worksheet Part 1 (Google Slides)
• Worksheet Part 2 (PDF)
• Worksheet Part 2 (Google Slides)
• Worksheet Part 3 (PDF) (Half sheets)
• Worksheet Part 3 (Google Slides)
• Worksheet Part 4 (PDF) (Half sheets)
• Worksheet Part 4 (Google Slides)