Baking with Fractions

DECORATING WITH FRACTIONS

10/23/2017

Introducing and explaining fractions in a yummy way is bound to get the attention of kids.

In this blog post, you will find an idea to explain fractions using brownies and decorating them with different types of candy.

A sweet fraction freebie is included at the end of this post! Two differentiated levels included.

I used a simple brownie mix and kept it in one piece to first explain that the cake in this tin is a whole. We spoke about that it is ONE whole brownie cake.

Next, cut up the brownie cake into 20 equal sized pieces. Then discuss that 20 pieces of brownies make up one whole in this cake tin. So 20 is the denominator for our fractions in this brownie tray.
I tried my best to keep the size of each brownie the same - point out that when working with fractions each part needs to be equal.

Then to start practicing writing fractions, use some different candy to decorate the individual brownies. I used jellybeans, coins, m&m's, and monster wrapped candy.
For example in the image below:
1. Ask students how many of the brownies are decorated with M&M's?
There are 5 brownies decorated with M&M's.
2. Ask how many brownies are in total?
20
3. How can we show this by writing a fraction? The number decorated in m&m's is the numerator, and the total amount of brownies is the denominator.
5
20

4. If doing this with older grades, you could also further discuss simplifying the fraction as an answer.
1
4

Then continue to do the same with different types of decorations.

What fraction of brownies have a jellybean on top?

4
20

What fraction of brownies have a gold coin on top?

3
20

What fraction of brownies have Kinder Monsters on top?

7
20

And then you can also do fractions for brownies without decorations.

I didn't put icing on the brownies so that I could easily change the decorations on top and keep practicing fractions as many times as needed.

Decorating some delicious treats is a fun way to help kids build an understanding of fractions. Grab a sweet differentiated fraction FREEBIE down below.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE RESOURCE 'Decorating with Fractions'

In the free download, you will receive TWO sets of the same three worksheets.
The first three are in easy mode, keeping the denominator the same as the total number for students to work with. Great for beginners.

The second set of the three worksheets, works best for students who have an understanding of equivalent fractions. The fraction rules are given in simplified form.