Max's Fraction Wall
See why two quarters are exactly one half
drag pieces onto the wall and find out for yourself why two quarters make a half
what this teaches: equivalent fractions, comparing fractions, what the top and bottom numbers mean
What you'll learn
- What the top and bottom numbers in a fraction actually mean
- Why fractions that look different can be exactly the same size
- Why 1/8 is smaller than 1/4 even though 8 is bigger than 4
- How to compare two fractions by looking at them instead of memorising a rule
How to play
- Drag the ruler across the wall and watch which fractions line up.
- In Cover It, drop pieces under the target bar until they match exactly.
- In Which Is Bigger?, make your guess and then watch the bars slide in to check it.
- In Add Them, lay pieces end to end and read the answer off the wall.
FAQ
What age is this for?
It is built for around age 7 and up, roughly 2nd through 5th grade. Younger children can drag the ruler and see what lines up; older ones get more from the Cover It challenges.
What is a fraction wall?
A fraction wall is a stack of bars, each cut into a different number of equal pieces, so you can see how fractions compare. Teachers also call it a fraction chart or fraction strips.
Do I need to install anything?
No. It runs in any web browser, including on tablets. It is free, and there is no signup or account.
For parents and teachers
This supports Common Core 3.NF and 4.NF, especially equivalent fractions and comparing fractions. Ask your child to explain why a piece sticks out in Cover It, because saying it aloud is what makes the idea stick.
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