Math
Grades:
3rd Grade

Here’s a Fun Way To Teach Fractions Using Pool Noodles

Keep your students’ interests afloat!

Summer is on the horizon, which means you can pick up inexpensive pool noodles at any dollar store. They have multiple uses in the classroom, but they’re extra helpful for keeping your math learners’ interests afloat. Check out this trick for pool noodle fractions! Students will be able to visualize fractions with this memorable and easy to set-up activity.

What You Need

To make this pool noodle fraction activity, which can be used at a center or for independent word work, all you need is:

  • Pool noodles in at least two different colors
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Permanent marker

What to Do

1. Measure 12 inches on a noodle.

Teaching fractions fun pool noodles step 1

2. Cut at the 12-inch mark.
Teaching fractions fun pool noodles step 2

3. Write the number one on the piece.
Teaching fractions fun pool noodles step 3

4. Cut the other color of pool noodle into two 6-inch pieces. Write .5 on each.
teaching fractions fun pool noodles step 4

5. Cut the first color of noodle into three 4-inch pieces for 1/3 (.3), then alternate colors for four 3-inch pieces for 1/4 (.25), six 2-inch pieces for 1/6 (.16), and eight 1.5-inch pieces for 1/8 (.125).

Pool noodle fractions marked! teaching fractions fun pool noodles step 5

Pool noodle fractions marked! teaching fractions fun pool noodles step 6

Pool noodle fractions marked! teaching fractions fun pool noodles step 7

Pool noodle fractions marked! teaching fractions fun pool noodles step 8

Voila! A tactile way to practice fractions or hit the pool.

Watch and learn how to bring this activity to life:

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Here's a Fun Way To Teach Fractions Using Pool Noodles