Review: Color Tile Fraction Puzzles

During our fraction unit, I added an extra activity to my 5th graders' study. Color Tile Fraction Puzzles: Grades 5+ consists of 30 puzzle cards, color tile, and an instruction booklet with student answer sheet and answer key.

What I like:
1. This is a great way to get kids thinking with visual fraction models.
2. Cards ask kids to calculate a fraction of a whole number (1/3 of 15, for example), contributing toward understanding multiplication of fractions.
3. The combination of puzzles, manipulatives, coloring, and computation lends a lot of fun to fraction exploration.
4. The product aligns to CCSS 5.NF.2:

"Solve word problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions referring to the same whole, including cases of unlike denominators, e.g., by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem."

4. Since the cards increase in difficulty, it is easy to differentiate.





Additional Thoughts:
The puzzles are advertised for use in grades 5 and up. I think it could be useful in 4th grade (perhaps even a challenge in 3rd), but I would probably only use it in grades higher than 5th if students were struggling with this particular concept...or I might use it as an extension.

Extension Idea:
Students with the greatest understanding of fractions could rapidly figure most problems in their heads. Given more time, I would challenge those students to write their own color tile fraction puzzles.

Summary:
This product contains a nice balance of fun and learning. I'm glad to have it available as an addition to our fraction practice.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of Color Tile Fraction Puzzles in exchange for a frank and unbiased review.