Before students start multiplying fractions, they learn how to determine the fraction of a set. 

That is, they will think of a set fraction as a whole, and each item in the set as a part of that whole. 

With our Fraction of a Set task cards, students will get extra practice solving word problems to determine the fraction of a set. 

How to Use Our Fraction of a Set Word Problems

This resource can be used in a math center when learning about fractions. It can also be used to give your whole class or guided math group some additional fraction and problem-solving practice—see our ideas below!

To play, students will review the task cards and solve for the fraction on the included recording sheet. 

Want more task cards? Check out our task card library for math, reading, and more! 

More Activities to Practice Solving Fractions of a Set

Looking for fraction review activities that get your whole class’ bodies and minds moving? We’ve thought up a few ideas for you. 😉

Gallery Walk

Hang all 16 task cards around the room to have your students complete a gallery walk. Working either alone or in pairs, assign a task card to each and have them rotate around the cards (on your signal), solving for the fraction on their recording sheet or a sheet of paper until they have completed each one.

(NOTE: We suggest printing a second set of cards for this activity that you can number.)

Show Me!

This game can be done as a whole-class review activity. Give each student a mini dry-erase board and a dry-erase marker. Project a fraction word problem task card on the screen and have your students solve for the answer on their board. When everyone has written down their answer, say “Show Me”. Students will flip their boards and this allows you to easily see who needs extra support with this skill.

Mirror Game

This activity is a spin on the classic “Newlywed Game” and works best with small groups because you’ll need enough dry erase boards and markers for each student. Divide the students into 2 groups and have them sit in 2 lines facing each other. Use your smartboard to show the students a sequence from one of the task cards and give them enough time to solve for the fraction on their board. On your cue (for example, “Flip!”) the students flip their boards around so their partner can see their answer. If both students in a pair have the correct answer, they get 2 points. If one has the correct answer, the team gets 1 point.

Change the Difficulty Level if Needed

Fast finishers can create their own problems on the back. Have students swap their original word problems with a partner to solve. 

If you have students who are struggling with the concept, use the task cards as a review in your guided small group and limit the number of word problems. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print the task cards on cardstock for added durability and longevity. To make this game more sustainable, print a few recording sheets on cardstock and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can record their answers with a dry-erase marker, then erase and reuse.

As a center activity, cut out the task cards and punch a hole in the corner of each to place them on a binder ring. Place all game parts in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Before You Download

Use the drop-down icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. A recording sheet and answer key are also included with this download.

This resource was created by Heather Chambers, a teacher in Texas and a Teach Starter Collaborator. 

We’ve got more fraction activities and word problems practice to put to use in your classroom! Here are a few teacher and student favorites: 

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Equivalent Fractions – Deck of Cards

Encourage healthy competition between your students by using this set of 30 equivalent fraction cards to play a variety of math games.

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Fractions of a Set – Cut and Paste Worksheets

A set of worksheets to practice fractional sets of a whole.

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Adding and Subtracting Like Fractions Word Problems Worksheets

Download these adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators word problems to provide your students with practice in this valuable math skill.