Fraction assignments:

1. write 3 fraction addition problems that could be solved with 2 sets of the fraction circles you have, where both denominators are the same, the sum is greater than 1, but there are no further simplifications in the final answer
2. write 3 fraction addition problems that could be solved with 2 sets of the fraction circles you have, where both denominators are the same,  the sum is greater than 1, and the answer can be simplified further after trading in for 1 whole.
3. write 3 fraction addition problems that could be solved with 2 sets of the fraction circles you have, where one fraction must be changed to an equivalent fraction with a different denominator, and where neither of the fractions is a unit* fraction

1. Write an illustrated explanation of how to find the sum (3/8) + (7/8) using fraction circles (show and tell each of the steps)
   
2. Write an illustrated explanation of how to find the sum (3/4) + (5/8) using fraction circles (show and tell each of the steps)

1. Read the section "Models for Fractions" that begins on page 254, and ends on page 256.  From the information in the readings and also our discussion in class...
1. tell two strengths of fraction circles (please take the criticisms of fraction circles with a grain of salt--many thoughtful teachers and researchers like them, and they have good reasons for liking them.)
   
2. tell two examples and two strengths of length models
3. tell one strength of making fractions from paper squares or on grid paper
2. Read the subsections of "From Fractional Parts to Fraction Symbols":
1. "Fractional Parts and Words" (begins on page 256)
1. On page 257 fig. 9.6 has some examples of subdivided shapes. The top shape, second from the left, is a rectangle divided into 5 parts.  Explain why the parts are not fifths of the rectangle, then figure out what fraction of the whole rectangle each of the parts is.
2. On page 257, the middle illustration of fig. 9.7 is an outline that could easily be made from two pattern block hexagons.  Trace your own shape like that (using 2 hexagons to trace).  Then figure out what fraction of that shape is shown by: a. a hexagon, b. a red trapezoid, c. a blue rhombus (this is the example shown in the book) d. a green triangle
2. The first half of "Understanding Fraction Symbols" beginning on page 257.  Stop reading at the first heading on page 260 "Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions" Pause at the STOP symbol on page 259 and do
1. Write your best answer in your own words to the questions on page 259. (right before the STOP)
2. Read on, and write a second answer in your own words to the same two questions after finishing the subsection
3. Write 2 things you learned from the readings
4. Write 2 questions you have about things from the readings (things that weren't clear) or about fractions in early grades math.