Fraction Sudoku

Age group
  • Primary (Age 6 to 9)
  • Junior/Intermediate (Age 9 to 12)

Curriculum Goal

Primary: Number Sense

Represent and solve fair-share problems that focus on determining and using equivalent fractions, including problems that involve halves, fourths, and eighths; thirds and sixths; and fifths and tenths.

Junior: Number Sense

  • Represent equivalent fractions from halves to twelfths, including improper fractions and mixed numbers, using appropriate tools, in various contexts.
  • Compare and order fractions from halves to twelfths, including improper fractions and mixed numbers, in various contexts.
  • Use equivalent fractions to simplify fractions, when appropriate, in various contexts. 
Related Links
Context
  • Children should be familiar with different representations of fractions.
    • e.g. number line, fraction strips, etc.
  • Children should be familiar with the parts of a fraction, such as numerator and denominator.
Materials
In person
  • Fraction cards (Appendix A)
  • Chart paper divided into the sudoku grid
Online

Lesson

  • Display the 4×4 fraction sudoku puzzle on the board (in-person or online) and introduce the rules of the game to the class.
  • The goal of the game is to fill the sudoku puzzle while following these rules:
    • Each row must contain all the fractions without repetition.
    • Each column must contain all the fractions without repetition.
    • Each 2×2 box must contain all the fractions without repetition.
  • Start solving the puzzle as a class. Encourage children to explain their reasoning out loud.
  • Ask the children to form small groups. Provide the fraction sudoku materials or game links to each group.
  • Students work collaboratively to complete the puzzle.
  • Provide support and guidance as needed. Encourage children to use logical reasoning and check their work.
  • Ask the children to reflect on their experiences with the game. Pose the following questions to the class:
    • Did you find the game challenging or fun?
    • What did you learn from the game?
    • Which strategies did you use to fill the board? 

Look Fors

  • What strategies are the children using to place the tiles? How are they checking their answers?
  • Are students able to convert between different representations of fractions in gameplay?
  • What language do students use to refer to the fractions? Do they say “1 over 2” or “half”?
    • Did students complete the puzzle successfully? 
    • After collecting the completed puzzles, assess the following understanding: Did students convert between different representations of fractions?  

Extension

  • Offer larger puzzles (e.g. 6×6 board) with more complex fractions.
  • Have children create their own fraction sudoku puzzles and swap amongst themselves.
  • Incorporate a short exit ticket that involves matching fractions to their corresponding representations.  
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