Volume 1 | Issue

Fractions in February
1
February 2018

National Library of Virtual Manipulatives

(NLVM)

The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives (NLVM) is a rich resource

filled with virtual manipulatives and concept tutorials. Sectioned off by
grade level and subject area, this online tool contains a wide array of
materials moving from simple to more difficult topics. For instance,
students can begin by using the Fractions – Comparing app to learn and
“Technology is essential practice common denominators before moving on to working with
in teaching and learning Fractions – Adding.
mathematics; it
influences the
mathematics that is
taught and enhances
students’ learning”

– The National Council

of Teachers of
Fractions - Comparing Fractions - Adding
Mathematics (NCTM)

All apps in the virtual library require high student engagement, and are
learner-centered in that students must facilitate their own work. As
students get accustomed to practicing their problem-solving skills using
these apps, they can move on to additional challenging concepts related to
fractions, such as decimals and percents. Interactive technology is a great
tool for all grade levels and opens possibilities for students to apply skills
and understandings to the virtual world.
 2

Why is technology
so important?
LEARNING FRACTIONS CAN
1. Engagement BE FUN!
Technology is so common for Technology is such a prevalent part of students’ lives, both in school and at
students outside of school. home. iPhone and iPad applications are great resources for students to
Integrating technology can
make lessons more fun and ensure their understanding of both basic and more complex topics. Apps
increase students’ also provide more engaging options for students, and can often make topics
engagement.
that are normally drilled more of a fun process to learn.
2. Preparation
The Math Learning Center
Incorporating technology
into the classroom can helpThe Math Learning Center contains many features that are beneficial in
students develophelping students learn the basics of fractions so they can move on to the
technological proficiency,
preparing them for possiblemore complex processes of comparing and computing with them. In
general, using virtual manipulatives can help students bypass the worry of
future careers.
ensuring their measurements are exactly right. Instead, the online tool will
3. Support
accurately calculate the sizes of each part of a circle or bar, guaranteeing
Technology encourages their equivalence.
teacher-student and student-
student collaboration in the
classroom, and helps Example of using the Math
students learn at their own Learning Center to
pace. compare fractions
equivalent fractions with
different denominators.

The Math Learning Center provides opportunities for students at a variety

of levels to work with fractions. For instance, they can use the tool to
represent equivalent fractions, explore relationships with decimals and
percents, and write equations. Additionally, the calculator tool can assist in
finding common denominators, as well as adding, subtracting, multiplying,
and dividing fractions. Lastly, the app has drawing tools available to
annotate work and write notes.

Example of using the bar

fraction tool to find and
annotate common
denominators.