Students in grades 1, 2, and 3 explored the concept of fractions using manipulative. First they had to identify and label all the fraction pieces, by using them to make a whole. As they made these observations we discussed the meaning of numerator and denominator. The denominator identifying how many equal pieces were in each whole. Later they worked with the pieces to make wholes and observed that a fraction where the numerator is the same digit as the denominator is always equal to a whole! The idea of mixed numbers was explored by asking the students to select seven fourths. How many wholes did that make? And how do you represent that mixed number? More recently we explored the concept of equivalent fractions using our shapes to find four ways to make 1/2, then four ways to create 1/4. Next we will be using the shapes to learn how to add and subtract fractions with equal denominators.