Alternative Assessment Show and Tell

Alternative Assessment: Clothespin Fractions: Ordering Fractions and Identifying

Equivalent Fractions

Standards Addressed:
3.NF.2 Understand a fraction as a number on the number line; represent fractions on a
number line diagram.
3.NF.A.3a Understand two fractions as equivalent (equal) if they are the same size, or the
same point on a number line.
3.NF.A.3b Recognize and generate simple equivalent fractions, e.g., 1/2 = 2/4, 4/6 =
2/3). Explain why the fractions are equivalent, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.
3.NF.A3 d. Compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator by
reasoning about their size. Recognize that comparisons are valid only when the two
fractions refer to the same whole. Record the results of comparisons with the symbols >,
=, or <, and justify the conclusions, e.g., by using a visual fraction model.

This project could be adapted to fit upper and lower grades as needed.

Materials Needed:
1. A hanger (1 per student)
2. Clothespins (20 per student *more or less depending on teacher preference)
3. Construction Paper (1-2 pieces per student)
4. Writing utensil

Directions for teacher:

This project could be produced in many different ways. For my students I would give
them 20 clothespins with fractions already labeled. I would have them order ten fractions.
For example I would have them order all the fractions with the same numerators, but
different denominators (1/2, 1/3 etc.). The students would order these fractions from least
to greatest on their hanger. I would then give them the other 10 clothespins with various
fractions (2/4, 3/9etc.). The students would match the equivalent fractions to those
already on their hanger. Some fractions could have a chain of equivalent fractions, while
others may not have a matching equivalent fraction. I would then have the students write
or type how they worked out ordering their fractions, using math vocabulary and
complete sentences. The students would then explain in writing how they find the
equivalent fractions. They would then glue or clothespin this to their hanger.

This could be adapted for lower grades in ways such as:

-Ordering positive and negative numbers

This could be adapted for older grades in ways such as:

 -Ordering mixed numbers/improper fractions
-Having students write their own fractions to order and compare
-Using negative fractions
-Adding decimals

I like this project because it is a fun way for kids to show their knowledge about
fractions. They are getting to be hands on and this helps them to visualize the connection
between their equivalent fractions. They are getting to manipulate their fractions by
moving them on the hanger and by attaching them to other fractions. This is a creative
way to assess your students understanding of ordering and comparing fractions. Students
also show understanding through their written explanation.

Student Directions:
1. Using the rules about comparing fractions and the butterfly method, please put the
ten fractions, with one as numerator, in order from least to greatest. Be sure to
double-check your work using the butterfly method.
2. Using what you know about how to find equivalent fractions, please correctly
match the other 10 clothespin fractions to their equivalents. Double-check your
work using the butterfly method.
3. After, please write or type an explanation on how you ordered your fractions. You
must: use complete sentence, correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and
capitalization. Your explanations should include math language, vocabulary,
and/or symbols.
4. Next, please write or type an explanation on how you found the equivalent
fractions. You must: use complete sentence, correct grammar, spelling,
punctuation, and capitalization. Your explanations should include math language,
vocabulary, and/or symbols.
5. Once you have completed all three steps, attach your explanation to the
construction paper. Then attach this to the hanger.
6. Then attach your clothespins fractions to the hanger.
7. Double check your work and make sure your name is on it!
Bibliography
"Fractional Clothesline." Fractional Clothesline. N.p., n.d. Web. 24
June 2016.
https://illuminations.nctm.org/Lesson.aspx?id=2867

"Love2learn2day: Clothespin Fractions." Love2learn2day: Clothespin

Fractions. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 June 2016
http://love2learn2day.blogspot.com/2012/12/clothespin- fractions_22.html

Smith, S.S. (2009). Early Childhood Mathematics (4 ed.) Boston: Pearson

Using manipulatives (2009). Retrieved December 10, 2009, from:
http://www.teachervision.fen.com/pro-dev/teaching-methods/48934.html
http://www.teachervision.fen.com/pro-dev/teaching-methods/48934.html