The Equivalence Game

Once its structure and rules are understood, this adaptation of a well-known card game will be a popular choice as an independent practice and maintenance activity. By playing it, students will gain confidence with equivalent fractions and a sense for where they fit in fraction sequences.
Before the students begin playing, check that they have a strategy for understanding and finding equivalent fractions.
If they need the support of materials, they could use Fraction Pieces or Fraction Strips. If they are using number properties, the strategy is to multiply or divide by a suitable equivalent of 1. For example, 1/3 x 3/3 = 3/9 or 4/6 ÷ 2/2 = 2/3. (Students need to be comfortable with the fact that 1 has an infinite number of such equivalents.) Those who need to practise making equivalent fractions using number properties could use Equivalent Fractions (Material Master 8–9).
The concept of a “run” of fractions is critical to the game, and students should study the illustrations and be able to describe exactly what constitutes one. All fractions in a run must have the same denominator or an equivalent form with that denominator. The first numerator does not have to be 1, but the numerators must increase consecutively by 1.
In this game, the lowest score always wins. Two scoring methods are suggested. The second will create a further mathematical challenge and should appeal to able and competitive students. The penalty of an extra 3 points is important as an encouragement to students to check each other’s scores.

Answers to Activity

Game
A game using equivalent fractions