Fractions Project Based Learning Math Activity

This project-based learning activity is the perfect recipe to engage students in solving real-world based fraction problems. They will use their knowledge of partitioning shapes, naming fractions, using number lines, and identifying equivalent fractions to whip up some tasty treats and beverages. 

In this Cafe-themed PBL activity, students are responsible for managing Sprinkles Cafe. Getting the cafe ready for the day and helping with daily tasks is a sweet, sweet job that requires an in-depth knowledge of fractions. From baking, decorating, and displaying pastries to brewing the perfect latte, students will love the chance to play barista. And teachers will love that this activity is simple to use (no actual cooking required) and low-prep–all you have to do is print and teach. 

This PBL activity is also included in our Third Grade Fractions Math Curriculum: Unit 7. If you’ve already purchased Unit 7 or the yearlong bundle you already have this activity.

What’s Inside:

• 5 different fraction activities (cafe themed)
• Color and black and white versions
• An answer key
• Detailed teacher directions

Skills covered:

• Partitioning shapes
• Naming fractions from shapes
• Fractions on a number line
• Equivalent fractions
• Identifying shapes

How to use this resource:

There are a variety of ways to use this resource in the classroom:

• Use as a whole group activity at the end of your fractions unit and complete the entire PBL as a review
• Use one activity a day to begin reviewing near the end of your fractions unit
• Place activities in student math centers
• Assign to students to complete individually 
• Allow students to work together or in a small group
• When using the colored version, print just a few copies and laminate or slide into page protectors. Students can use an expo marker to complete the activities and you’ll have the activity for years.
• Use during guided-math groups to provide extra support to students.
• This resource is best used after you have taught fractions.

Time to Complete:

This activity should take 45-60 minutes, depending on the skill level of your students and whether or not they are working in groups.

FAQs

Q: What is project-based learning?

A: Project-based learning or PBL is a teaching method in which students learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally meaningful projects.

Q: Is there a lot of prep involved in this activity?

A: No. This activity is super low prep for teachers. All you have to do is print and teach.

Q: Do students complete this activity individually or in groups?

A: That’s up to you! PBL activities are great for collaboration, however, you can choose to allow students to work on this individually as well.

Q: How can I use the colored version in class without wasting ink?

A; The colored version is great if your students are working in pairs or small groups. Print and laminate the colored pages and have students use expo markers to record their answers. When they are done, they can erase their marks and you can reuse the pages over and over again.

This PBL is also included in:

Third Grade Fractions Math Curriculum: Unit 7

Math Project-Based Learning Bundle for 3rd Grade

Other resources you might like:

Multiplication and Division PBL

Area, Perimeter, and Geometry PBL

Addition and Subtraction Football PBL