Fraction Escape (make one) can be played as a single-player or multiplayer game. It helps the players add fractions to one with visual help. A low-floor high-ceiling game that can be played by all players. Some students will start with simple fractions and some will move on to the more difficult ones where they choose to match not only 1/3+2/3 but also 3/9+4/6.
The goal is to be the first player to escape all the rooms.
As I have mentioned many times, I believe that math games should be opportunities to learn, (often from each other), have fun, and socialize. If a game feels like a test it discourages students and lowers their confidence. Playing games at home with parents is very different than playing games at school and educators must be careful with the choice of games and should always provide ways for all students to have a positive experience. (like providing “cheat sheets” and visuals, 2 “cheat sheets” provided below.
Print version
Material:
- Print-out of the game board
- One dice
- Two place markers for each player (small objects, transparent ones like counters will work better as they will not hide the fraction visuals. We cut pieces from transparent colored shampoo and soap bottles and they work very well)
Two game boards are provided for two different levels. One basic and one challenge.
How to play
The players place their markers (both) on any (same) tile in the middle smallest room. The players roll the dice to decide which one goes first. The players take turns rolling the dice. At their turn, they move any of their markers (one at each turn) in any direction as many steps as the dice roll. The goal is to land their two markers on two (different) fractions that make a whole. Once they do that they escape the room and on their next turn, they can start on any tile in the next room.
The first player to exit all the rooms is the winner.
Low floor-High Ceiling
This game offers good practice and helps students see patterns, find relationships, and understand fractions better. It is a low floor high ceiling game in the sense that some players will look for the more obvious answers like 1/4+3/4=1 and some will use the equivalent fractions as well 1/4+6/8=1
Allow the players to use the fraction cards to help students compare fractions and understand better. The cards are a great way to start. There are two games in this post as well which are easier for players since the cards can be placed next to each other to visually compare.
Find the basic board -Game 1 for free download below
