Yes, fractions are tough to crack—can’t agree more! However, by recognising the existence of 🧠Maths Brain-Twisters🌀, we gain insights into WHY fractions are so tricky. This understanding can significantly impact how we help children with fractions.

Let me explain.

🌀 Behind every school maths topic lies a set of ‘micro’ maths concepts that must be fully grasped for the bigger maths picture to make sense. Many of them induce a twisty sensation in our minds—as if there is a barrier in a brain that refuses to accept them!

My students and I call these ‘micro’ concepts 🧠Maths Brain-Twisters🌀.

THEY make learning maths feel like an uphill battle!

Now, back to fractions.

Remember 🌳 ‘The Math Tree’?
It represents all maths areas that children learn at school in an orderly manner, categorised into:

NURSERY/PRIMARY

1. Numbers
2. Negative numbers
3. Fractions
4. Ratios & proportions
5. Introduction to algebra

SECONDARY

6. Algebraic manipulations
7. Fundamental algebra concepts
8. Equations
9. Functions

And the list continues, covering all areas up to school maths exams.

Now, take a closer look at those pink, yellow and green circles (see video attached).

They represent maths topics children must grasp and master in practice. And each topic is filled with maths brain-twisters, ranging from at least one to sometimes as many as 2-3-4 or more brain-twisters for each topic!

OUCH.

And now my key point:

🌀 See where the main chunk of maths brain-twisters is concentrated?

Yes: on nursery and primary levels!

This is why fractions (No 3 on the ‘tree’) can be a stumbling block for many children! Unless …

Unless children are not just explained maths ideas and how to apply them in practice, but also receive timely assistance in unravelling these brain-twisters!

One brain-twister by one.
One by one.

This is the key!

❗One by one…

So, yes…
Fractions are challenging.
And there is no magical solution here!

However, our mission as adults is to find ways to turn this challenge into as enjoyable a journey as possible for our children.

How?

📢 By helping them tackle brain-twisters, one at a time!

❓Is your child grappling with fractions?
Feel free to share your views with me!

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🟪 I help children excel in mathematics.
🟪 I share proven ideas on how to effectively help children with mathematics.
📢 If you found this article helpful, you might be interested in following #MorrishMaths on social media for FREE tips and ideas.
📢 Feel free to contact me directly to discuss your child’s progress in mathematics.