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Goal

Using rainbow fraction tiles directly boosts 4th-grade student achievement by shifting abstract math concepts into concrete, visual reality. By physically manipulating the color-coded, proportional bars, students build a foundational understanding of the 4th grade standards like generating equivalent fractions (MA.4.FR.1.3), comparing fraction sizes (MA.4.FR.1.4), and adding with like denominators (MA.4.FR.2.2). This tactile, self-checking method corrects common mathematical misconceptions—such as thinking a larger denominator means a larger piece—which ultimately reduces errors, supports diverse learners, and improves proficiency on standardized Florida FAST assessments. Our School Improvement Plan has a goal to raise overall math proficiency to 90% by improving math learning gains and closing achievement gaps with lower performing students. These hands-on manipulatives will help students master critical fractional concepts, directly accelerating learning gains and closing achievement gaps.  

What will be done with my students

Students will engage with the rainbow fraction tiles through a structured, instructional approach during math blocks and targeted intervention times. Students will use the physical tiles to discover mathematical relationships. For example, when learning equivalent fractions (MA.4.FR.1.3) students will physically overlay tiles to prove equivalency. Students will also use the tiles to visually untangle misconceptions, such as physically comparing fractions tiles to verify that a larger denominator creates a smaller piece (MA.4.FR.1.4). Tiles will also be placed in math center rotations. Students will use the tiles to self-correct their independent practice problems, transforming abstract paper-and-pencil equations into self-checking tactile proofs. These items will be used by students during both whole-group and small-group instruction to model equivalent fractions, decompose fractions, and perform operations with like denominators. Formative and summative assessments will show students understanding and mastery of these standards before taking the Florida FAST assessment at the end of the year. 

Benefits to my Students

While our school exhibits strong overall achievement, our current SIP explicitly identifies 4th grade math proficiency. Fractions represent one of the most significant academic hurdles in the 4th grade Florida B.E.S.T. Standards. Without physical intervention tools, students routinely rely on rote memorization rather than conceptual understanding. This leads to predictable errors – such as adding denominators together or assuming that a fraction is larger because the denominator is larger. Our students need the tactile, rainbow fraction tiles to close the achievement gap and develop a deeper understanding of fractions. This will be measured with formative assessments throughout the fraction unit, a summative assessment at the end of the unit and additional formative assessments during targeted intervention groups. Finally, the Florida FAST Assessment at the end of the school year will provide us with concrete data of proficiency within the fraction standards (MA.4.FR). 

Budget Narrative

I am requesting two Learning Resources Fraction Tiles (Set of 30) and two Zippered Mesh Storage Bags (Pack of 30). These will be used across multiple 4th grade math classes and during math tutoring. The tiles will convert abstract mathematical rules into physical, concrete models. By manipulating the tiles students will be able to physically see why fractions are equal, or why a larger denominator creates a smaller piece. The mesh bags will hold the loose pieces to assist with seamless transitions. Students can grab their personal, pre-sorted pouch and begin working without lengthy distribution or sorting of pieces. Each student will be responsible for keeping their set complete and returning them in their mesh pouch, which will protect the longevity of the grant materials. 

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