4 Dice a Fractions Game
Adding, Subtracting, Multiplying, & Dividing Fractions
UPDATE This hands-on game will now offer bluetooth capabilities which will allow 2 players to compete against each other in the same room on separate devices. The new feature will help parents, teachers, and students play competitively or cooperatively with each other using the iPhone, iPad or iTouch.
4 Dice: Fraction Games hones the many concepts of fractions that include adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing through a series of game mode options. The game also enhances analytical thinking by providing the answer and requiring students to determine the appropriate equation. This fraction game provides a target answer combined with the chosen function. Once students roll the dice, they then must determine the correct number placement in the equation that correlates with the predetermined answer. The whiteboard and pencil tools provide children with the opportunity for writing and testing which equation fits the answer provided.
The program begins with fraction construction and continues through more advanced calculations, making it adaptable for various age groups and different skill levels. The design of the application ensures that students fully understand the steps necessary for arriving at the given answer. By actually constructing the equations, students maintain a better grasp of concepts and retain the information learned.
4 Dice: Fraction Games is a math app for middle school and upper elementary students. The goal of the game is to present fractions in a way that is both conducive to learning and fun. This game is very similar to my other app 5 Dice: Order of Operations Game but this one focuses on fractions. 4 Dice teaches the basic concept of fractions by working backwards by giving the answer first and teaching the methods of getting that answer in an interactive and engaging way.
Common Core Mathematical Standard
4.NF Extend understanding of fractional equivalence and ordering.
5.NF Use equivalent fractions as a strategy to add and subtract fractions.
6 NF Apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication and division to divide fractions by fractions.
Key features include:
- High-order thinking game to challenge students in a fun way
- Progress reports sent to teachers to assess progress and target individual weaknesses
- A built-in whiteboard to give students a place to work through problems
Learning Through Doing
Adding fractions, subtracting fractions, multiplying fractions, and dividing fractions can be difficult concepts to grasp. Once a student understands HOW to get the answer, they can solve any fraction problem. Parents, teachers, and education experts all agree that the best way to learn math skills is through practice and hands-on experience. This way children retain math skills much longer than if they are simply taught to focus on just getting the right answer.
Combining Playing and Learning
It is often said that people remember about ten percent of what they hear, but about ninety percent of what they do. Clearly, there is something to be said for hands-on learning. The game combines playing and learning by allowing students to actually play a game as they are learning how to solve fractions. By figuring out how to get the answer, students are learning skills that can be applied to any problem involving fractions. As with video games, students can advance to higher levels once they develop certain skills. The result is an environment that actually makes students want to learn by challenging them to master skills to advance to higher levels.
Learning with Productive Practice
Most students do not approach homework as a way to learn and practice their skills. The main focus is on trying to get the correct answer, not a focus on how to get that answer. This fraction game, however, encourages students to focus on learning the steps necessary to solve fraction problems while playing a fun game of skill at the same time. Students are more likely to want to practice on their own. The result is more productive practice.
Brushing Up On Skills
Some students may be in need of additional skills to advance to more challenging math classes in school. Rather than holding a student back, the fraction game can help a student brush up on the skills they may have had trouble grasping. Maybe you have a student who gets subtraction and addition of fractions, but doesn’t fully understand multiplying and dividing fractions. Fraction games present a student with a fun, interactive way to brush up on skills and understand the basic concepts that make it possible to work different problems.
Perfect for Students of Different Age Groups/Skills Levels
This math game is perfect for students at different skill levels and age groups. Elementary students can use it to learn the basic concept of subtracting and adding fractions. Middle school students can use it to learn how to solve more complex fraction problems such as dividing and multiplying fractions. Students learn at different paces and this game is set up to fit each skill level.
Engaging Students Beyond the App
The app isn’t meant to replace traditional learning. It is a tool for both parents and teachers when it comes to assessing needs and determining where to offer assistance. Students of all ages can be engaged by the app and additional instruction beyond the app. The app can easily extend from a one-player game to a multi-player game. The 4 Dice App comes with printable game sheets that are free HERE. This makes it easy to prepare lessons. All you need is:
- Printable game sheets*
*The 4 Dice app can also be hooked up to a smart board that is displayed to the class or an iPad that each student can use so that they can play individually on their own time and track their progress.
Many classrooms don’t have the resources for every student to have an iPad. Fortunately, there are ways to solve this problem and still get the most out of the 4 Dice game.
1. One Device with Multiple Players
This is usually a situation where there is one device, which is probably owned by the teacher. Write the problem out on the board. Have each student get out a piece of paper and a pencil or use the printable version of the game. Set a time limit – one minute is recommended – to have each student try to solve the problem on the board.
2. A Few Devices with Multiple Players
This is usually a situation where there are a few devices, but not enough for everyone to have their own. Let students work in small groups with one device. A blank piece of paper or the printable board can be used to record work. To do this:
- Create a multiplayer username (ex. Group 1)
- Use the numbers rolled on the device and solve the problem
- Input the information from the answer into the device to check it
3. Multiple Devices with Multiple Players
If there are enough devices for everyone, there are four basic options: let students work individually, break students into small groups of two or three, split off into groups of two and compete as partners, or play as a classroom.
Feedback & Recommendations:
We would love to receive feedback from you to help us in creating and evolving this game into the best learning environment for your students or children.