LEGO bricks (in various sizes and colors)
LEGO baseplates (optional, for building on)
Paper strips and markers (for labeling fractions)
Tape or adhesive (to attach labels to LEGO structures).Preparation:
Gather a variety of LEGO bricks in different sizes and colors.
Prepare paper strips and markers for labeling fractions.
Set up LEGO baseplates if using, to provide a building surface.
Introduction to Fractions with LEGO:
Explain to students that they will be using LEGO bricks to visualize and create fractions.
Demonstrate how to use LEGO bricks to represent simple fractions. For example, show that a tower of 2 LEGO bricks can represent 1/2 if compared to a tower of 4 bricks representing a whole.
Building Fraction Towers:
Have students build towers of LEGO bricks to represent different fractions. For example, they can create towers of 2 bricks for 1/2, 3 bricks for 1/3, 4 bricks for 1/4, and so on.
Instruct students to compare their towers side by side to see the differences and similarities in height, representing different fractions.
Creating Fraction Strips:
Have students lay out LEGO bricks side by side to create fraction strips. For example, they can lay out 4 bricks in a row to represent a whole and then 2 bricks to represent 1/2.
Use paper strips and markers to label the fractions. Attach the labels to the LEGO structures using tape or adhesive.
Exploring Equivalent Fractions:
Challenge students to find and build equivalent fractions using LEGO bricks. For example, they can build a structure showing that 2/4 is equivalent to 1/2.
Encourage students to experiment with different combinations and discuss their findings with the class.
Creating Greater-Than and Less-Than Sentences:
Have students use their LEGO fraction towers and strips to create greater-than and less-than math sentences. For example, 1/2 > 1/4 or 2/3 < 3/4. Allow students to manipulate the LEGO bricks and labels to form different math sentences. Reflection and Discussion: After completing the activities, gather students to discuss their experiences. Ask students how using LEGO bricks helped them understand fractions. Discuss any patterns or observations they noticed while working with fractions. Extension (Optional): Introduce more complex fractions and have students explore equivalent fractions beyond halves, quarters, and thirds. Create a challenge where students build the tallest tower or the longest strip with a specific fraction in mind.