TLE Fraction Explorer

If you are using The Learning Equation math program, the direction for using the Fractions Explorer is on pages 12 and 13 of the Student Refresher accompanying the CD resources.

The explorer features pattern blocks.  You have the option to use a hexagon or double hexagon as the unit fraction.  The chart below shows the type of fractions you can construct.

Hexagon unit fraction

Arcytech Pattern Blocks

Arcytech has developed an interactive pattern block site.  The applet is displayed on at least 2 sites:

Pattern Blocks: Exploring Fractions with Shapes

Pattern Blocks: Exploring Fractions with Shapes

The applet uses the hexagon as the unit fraction.  The chart below shows you the choice of fractions you have.

Hexagon

Pattern Blocks: Exploring Fractions with Shapes

Pattern Blocks: Exploring Fractions with Shapes

Here are the equivalent fractions for 1:

1,     2/2,     3/3,      6/6

To illustrate 1/2 + 1/6:

1/2 + 1/6
= 3/6 + 1/6
= 4/6

To illustrate 1/2 - 1/6:

1/2 - 1/6
= 3/6 - 1/6
= 2/6
= 1/3