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

You can buy pool noodles for $1.00 a pop at any dollar store. And with summer on the horizon, they’re readily in stock. Pool noodles have multiple uses in the classroom, but they’re extra helpful when they’re keeping your math learners’ interest afloat. Check out this trick to make teaching fractions fun for students by using pool noodles.

What You Need

To make this hands-on 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. 

2. Cut at the 12-inch mark.

3. Write the number one on the piece.

4. Cut the other color of pool noodle into two 6-inch pieces. Write .5 on each.

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).

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

Watch here to learn how to make teaching fractions fun with pool noodles: