Unlike Denominators Math Games

8 games

In this series of games, your students will learn to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators by replacing given fractions with equivalent fractions in such a way as to produce an equivalent sum or difference of fractions with like denominators. The Unlike Denominators learning objective — based on CCSS and state standards — delivers improved student engagement and academic performance in your classroom, as demonstrated by research. This learning objective directly references 5.NF.A.1 as written in the common core national math standards.

Scroll down for a preview of this learning objective’s games and the concepts.

Concepts Covered

In order to add or subtract fractions, the denominators (or size of the parts of a whole) need to be the same size. Finding the equivalent fractions with common denominators does not change the value of either fraction. In order to add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators, you must find equivalent fractions with the same denominator. To find equivalent fractions, you must multiply by a fraction that is equal to one whole. Once equivalent fractions are made, only the numerators are added or subtracted. The denominators remain the same for the sum or difference of the fractions. In order to add or subtract fractions, both fractions will need to be changed to have common denominators.

Finding the Least Common Denominator (LCD) and then multiplying by the appropriate factor is acceptable but not necessary. Simplifying the sum or difference to be in lowest terms is not necessary. Fractions can be proper, improper (greater than one whole), or mixed numbers for addition or subtraction. Understanding that the size of units changes by creating equivalent fractions. Use visual fraction models, number lines, or equations to demonstrate thinking and solving of fractional addition and subtraction. Add fractions with unlike denominators. Add mixed numbers with unlike denominators. Subtract fractions with unlike denominators. Subtract fractions with unlike denominators.

A preview of each game in the learning objective is found below.

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Fractions: Intro - Lab Estimated Duration: 10 minutes Build pictorial fractions with mixed pieces. Create an improper fraction to match. Note: Students will automatically move through this simulation after 10 minutes of playtime.

Fractions: Mixed Numbers - Lab Estimated Duration: 10 minutes Build pictorial fractions with mixed pieces. Create a mixed number to match. Note: Students will automatically move through this simulation after 10 minutes of playtime.

Image for Pengu and the Unlikely Encounters

Pengu and the Unlikely Encounters Estimated Duration: 20 minutes Pengu needs to eat! Go on a thrilling adventure with Pengu while he uses the knowledge of unlike denominators to defeat enemies in the way of his food.

Galaxy Escape Estimated Duration: 20 minutes 10 Bright Monsters have been captured in space and they need your help to cross the galaxy jumping between platforms, finding them, and releasing them by correctly answering each question. Each monster that you release and unlock will be available to play with in the next level, in the search for the next monster. In your journey, you’ll be able to find power-ups, like ‘Double points’ and ‘Slow down’, which can be activated by finding gems, and their duration can be extended by correctly answering a question. Unlock and release the 10 different monsters and a spaceship along 10 different levels, while you make the most possible points.

Fractional Fruitland Estimated Duration: 15 minutes You are a Ninja Frog and your mission is to collect fruits in the world of Fruitland!! You have to complete a series of challenges involving fraction operations with unlike denominators to obtain all the fruits!! The game is divided into several levels, each level counts with its fruits the player needs to collect and a couple of obstacles to be cleared by completing an operation of addition or subtraction of fractions with unlike denominators.

Image for Add & Subtract Fractions with Unlike Denominators

Add & Subtract Fractions with Unlike Denominators Estimated Duration: 5 minutes Students will learn to find common denominators and write equivalent fractions in order to add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers.

Stack the Blobs Estimated Duration: 20 minutes Help Bob the blob recover it’s herd of blobs. The poor things ran away and got themselves all mixed up and entangled with each other. Time to use the knowledge of fractions to help them out!

Image for Pirates And Adventurers : Treasure Island

Pirates And Adventurers : Treasure Island Estimated Duration: 20 minutes Pirates and adventurers have collected a great deal of treasure and must share it among themselves. Help them calculate each pirate's share by adding and subtracting fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators and maybe you'll gain a part of the loot.

The Unlikely Hero 2 Estimated Duration: 17 minutes The Unlikely Hero tells the adventures of Devon, a friendly villager who was turned into a monster by the Glombobs, after they invaded the quiet village of Villaverde. Let's accompany Devon to collect the stars that his town needs to reactivate the energy generator, while we avoid the obstacles that we will find in the Uneven Forest, trying to avoid the Glombobs and discovering many valuable objects on our way, while We learn to add and subtract fractions (including mixed ones) in a fun way!

Robot Chef Estimated Duration: 18 minutes Congratulations, you are creating the first all-robot restaurant in the city! As you serve more customers, you will be able to build more robots to assist in delivering tasty treats. Attend Night School and answer questions to earn advanced robot chefs!

Unlike Denominators Math Games

Concepts Covered

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