# Why Use Fraction Tiles?

As an Algebra teacher, I have noticed that students often have a weak understanding of fractions and tend to avoid using them. Using manipulatives for longer can help students develop a better internal understanding of fractions.

I have created fraction tiles up to thirty-sixths, along with decimal fractions (tenths and hundredths). The tiles can be written on and disposed of, or you can laminate a set and use crayons or board markers. They come in two sizes: 3 $cm^2$ and 4 $cm^2$. The Fraction Tiles can be found below, next to the dragon.

Two examples of how I use the tile:

 Adding and Subtracting Fractions   Use the yellow tiles for adding or the starting number (when subtracting), and the red tiles for what you are subtracting.   I have found the key for students to make the connection between the physical fraction tiles and the processes they do on paper, is to have them write out each step as they preform it with the tiles.

 Multiplying Fractions   The tiles can be used to multiply a fraction times a fraction or mixed number.   For this example, I made a transparency of the fractions divided vertically (which I laminated for extra thickness). I used whiteboard crayons to draw lines on $\tfrac{1}{3}$ of a transparent tile. By overlaying the tiles the student can see where the two colorings overlap.

### Hey!

This might be be fun to look at next:

Fraction Tiles (3 cm squared)

Fraction Tiles (4 cm squared)