Course description
Introduces Cuisenaire rods as concrete models of the part-to-whole relationship of fractions with application to fractions with like denominators.
Cuisenaire rods allow students to model fractions and develop intrinsic ability to add and subtract fractions through conceptual understanding rather than by rote memorization of algorithms. By engaging students in these modeling activities, the outcome will be to have increased understanding of addition and subtraction of proper fractions with like denominators.
Use the Facilitator Guide for information about printing and cutting the paper Cuisenaire Rods ahead of time and to actively support participation.
This is the second in a series of Professional Development videos about Understanding Fractions through Concrete and Visual designs. The next video, Visualizing Fractions: Modeling addition and subtraction using Cuisenaire rods * Part B UNLIKE Denominators, is the continuation of this video, working with the addition and subtraction of fractions that have different denominators.
About the developer:
Developed by Suzanne K. Fox, Staff Development Specialist, Oswego Center for Instruction, Technology & Innovation (CiTi).