Frax is a web-based tool for teaching fractions to students, using games to make it fun and engaging.
According to its creators, ExploreLearning, knowledge of fractions in fifth grade can predict students' success in algebra and more. Through research-based training, these games help students understand fractions as numbers and better relate to numbers in general.
ESSA Level 2 research shows that using Frax results in 3x growth for third graders and a 5x improvement for fourth graders. It also supports STEM learning.
This guide aims to lay out everything you need to know about Frax and how it can work in your classroom.
What is Frax?
Frax is a game-based digital learning tool that focuses on teaching and mastering fractions. Aimed specifically at third, fourth, and fifth grade students, this platform aims to make learning fractions fun and engaging.
Through a series of games, with characters that students meet, they can advance through a fictional world in which knowing fractions helps them overcome the challenges of the game.
The game not only uses quests as a way to break down concepts, but also offers tokens as rewards. These can be used to obtain items in a shop, all of which adds to the immersive nature of this game world that keeps students learning.
How does Frax work?
Frax can be accessed immediately, with a 30-day free trial. Licensing options, suitable for different levels, will then be available which will unlock the entire product. Add your class of students and they can start learning on any device with a web browser right away.
Students have their own accounts so they can progress, exit, and return to continue from where they paused. The game's levels vary depending on the challenges our space-traveling characters face, and each requires some form of fraction arithmetic.
For example, a robot could create a ravine that our hero needs to cross and is therefore divided into five blocks that students must drag and drop to get the correct number (five fifths) into the spaces so the character can progress. .
Therefore, a basic understanding of fractions is required, but also self-explanatory, which should mean that all students can progress using this tool with minimal teacher support.
What are the best features of Frax?
Frax is fun. It features space cats as main characters, features flying robots and wacky aliens, and lets kids become heroes. That helps make it easier for students to come back, continue learning, and progress toward mastery with minimal effort.
The fact that the game develops concepts of fractions and the math fits the plot makes everything seem perfect. This continues beyond the game, as teachers can track students' progress from a dashboard, ideal for guiding them and helping them progress.
The tasks become increasingly difficult to help students grow and at the end of each mission there is a short assessment with questions. This allows students to consolidate learning, but also teachers to see how they assimilate what they are learning.
It is helpful for teachers to be able to move students forward if necessary. Although it has a very compelling story, most will probably want to play it anyway.
How much does Frax cost?
Frax offers a free trial and then charges you various prices to suit the needs.
He free trial lasts for 30 days and can be used by teachers, schools or districts.
The price is then custom made with rates that vary to fit teacher, school or district plan levels.
Top Frax Tips and Tricks
Work in groups
Place students into skill groups so you can more easily assess and coach them group by group.
Ask questions
Have students ask each other the questions at the end of the sections so you can explore their mechanics more deeply together.
Teach with character
Use the game's characters as you teach fractions in class, helping students tap into what they know while moving on to what's new.
