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Prefix Picture Fractions ✨ cross-curricular

Teacher: TeacherAI | Grade: 2 | Subject: Reading/ELA, Visual Arts, Math | Duration: 60 minutes

📝 Description: Students create fraction art using repurposed materials while learning prefixes like "re-" and partitioning shapes into equal parts.

Standards

  • 2.L.4b (Determine the meaning of the new word formed when a known prefix is added to a known word)
  • 2.L.4c (Use a known root word as a clue to the meaning of an unknown word with the same root)
  • VA:Cr2.3.2a (Repurpose objects to make something new)
  • VA:Cr3.1.2a (Discuss and reflect with peers about choices made in creating artwork)
  • 2.G.3 (Partition circles and rectangles into two, three, or four equal shares, describe using words halves, thirds, half of, a third of)

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to:

  • Identify the meaning of words with the prefix "re-" by using root words as clues
  • Repurpose construction paper scraps to create new artwork
  • Partition circles and rectangles into halves, thirds, and fourths using proper fraction vocabulary
  • Reflect on artistic choices with peers using complete sentences
  • Create fraction art that demonstrates understanding of equal parts

Supplies Needed

  • Construction paper (including scraps from previous projects)
  • White paper
  • Scissors
  • Glue sticks
  • Crayons and markers
  • Whiteboard and dry-erase markers

Lesson Structure

Opening (5 minutes)

Show students a pile of construction paper scraps. Ask: "What could we do with these leftover pieces instead of throwing them away?" Introduce the word "repurpose" and write it on the board. Explain that "re-" means "again" and "purpose" means "use," so repurpose means "use again in a new way."

Main Activity (50 minutes)

Step-by-step instructions:

  1. Prefix Power (8 minutes): Write "re-" words on the board: remake, reuse, rebuild, redraw. Have students identify the root word in each and explain how "re-" changes the meaning. Practice with "repurpose" - we'll use our scraps again for a new purpose.
  2. Fraction Review (7 minutes): Draw circles and rectangles on the board. Demonstrate partitioning into halves, thirds, and fourths. Emphasize equal parts and use vocabulary: "one half," "one third," "one fourth."
  3. Plan the Art (10 minutes): Give each student a white paper base. Students choose whether to create circles or rectangles (or both) and decide how to partition them. They must plan at least one shape divided into halves, thirds, or fourths using repurposed paper scraps.
  4. Create Fraction Art (15 minutes): Students cut circles and rectangles from construction paper scraps, then partition them into equal parts. They arrange and glue pieces on their white paper base, creating colorful fraction designs. Circulate and ask: "How many equal parts?" "What fraction is this?"
  5. Add Details (5 minutes): Students use crayons and markers to add details, borders, or backgrounds to enhance their fraction art.
  6. Peer Reflection (5 minutes): Students pair up to share their artwork. They must explain: "I repurposed _____ to make _____" and "This shows _____ (fraction vocabulary)" and ask their partner one question about their artistic choices.

Closing (5 minutes)

Gallery walk where students display their fraction art. Volunteers share one thing they learned about prefixes and one fraction they created.

Quick Check: Ask students: "What does 're-' mean?" "Show me halves with your hands," and "Name one way we repurposed materials today."

Formative Assessment

During the lesson, look for:

  • Students correctly identifying root words and explaining how "re-" changes meaning
  • Accurate partitioning of shapes into equal parts with proper fraction vocabulary
  • Meaningful peer discussions about artistic choices using complete sentences

Differentiation Strategies

Support for Struggling Students:

  • Provide pre-cut circles and rectangles with light dotted lines showing how to partition
  • Focus on halves and thirds only, saving fourths for later
  • Pair with strong partners during reflection time

Challenge for Advanced Learners:

  • Include sixths and eighths in their fraction art
  • Write fraction equations on their artwork (1/2 + 1/2 = 1 whole)
  • Create a story about their repurposed art using multiple "re-" words

ELL/ELD Support:

  • Provide visual vocabulary cards showing prefix examples with pictures
  • Use sentence frames: "I repurposed _____ to make _____" and "This shows _____"
  • Encourage use of gestures and pointing when explaining fractions

Printable Materials

This lesson uses only classroom supplies - no printable materials required.

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