The most dreaded fifth grade math skill…fractions!!!
After 27 years in teaching and 22years of teaching fifth graders, both departmental and self-contained, the most dreaded standard faced by teachers and fifth grade2rs alike is the dreaded FRACTIONS unit!
Fractions seem to be the “boogie man” of math and so I was looking for a way to combine the practicing of fraction skills and the upcoming Valentine’s Day with a fun activity. While we do have a small party and exchanging of Valentine’s cards, there is still an expectation of staying the course with lessons!
Awkward age…Fifth Grade
Fifth graders are looking forward to middle school at this time of year…more freedom, less teacher monitoring. At the same time, they still enjoy Valentine’s parties and the exchanging of cards. I wanted to make an activity that my kids didn’t see as “baby-ish” and would also challenge their math skills…always an area that needs practice!
The best of both Fractions and Valentine’s day!
The result was “Fraction Operations Valentines Mystery!” My students love to break codes and solve puzzles, so combining that with fractions, which we are studying and reviewing, seemed a natural.
Cupid has had his bow stolen by one of his holiday symbol friends and in order to identify the thief, students have to solve 4 different coded messages by solving fractions problems using all four operations. 
I have also included a “How To Use” for teachers! Let me help you with your lesson planning!
Last, but certainly not least, each fraction worksheet has an answer sheet to help teachers help their students solve the mystery!
You can find this newest of my store products in my store by simply clicking on any of the pictures in my blog!
What do you think? How do you make fractions fun for your students? Let me know…I’d love to hear from you!
Thanks,
Sue
It's all good, really! 