Bring fraction problem-solving to life with our hands-on Fraction Fortress paper craft activity. This creative resource helps students apply their addition and subtraction of fractions skills in a fun and visually engaging way. By following a set of differentiated instructions, students will use their working knowledge of fractions to colour and complete their own unique fortress design.

Each student receives a fortress colouring template and an instruction card. As they solve each fraction problem on their card, they use the answer to guide how they colour different sections of the fortress. With addition and subtraction of fractions woven throughout the task, this activity turns maths practise into a purposeful and artistic challenge. It’s a fantastic way to revise or consolidate learning in a calm and engaging format.

Three differentiated versions are included so you can easily match the task to your students’ readiness. Version 1 includes addition and subtraction with like denominators. Version 2 moves into related denominators and basic simplification (e.g. 5/10 becomes 1/2). Version 3 provides the most challenge, including simplification of various fractions and subtraction from whole numbers. Each card is clearly marked with a symbol to help you track which version students are using. Just print the templates and cards, and you're ready to go!

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Add and subtract fractions with like and related denominators
• ✅ Apply knowledge of simplifying fractions in a problem-solving context
• ✅ Interpret multi-step instructions involving mathematical reasoning
• ✅ Use visual cues to connect maths thinking with creative outcomes
• ✅ Strengthen fluency and accuracy with fraction operations

What’s Included:

• 1 fortress colouring template (one per student)
• 3 differentiated instruction cards:
  • - Version 1: same denominators
  • - Version 2: related denominators and simple simplification
  • - Version 3: advanced simplification and subtracting from whole numbers
• Each instruction card includes a series of fraction-based tasks with a colouring guide
• Answer key not included (open-ended solution based on accuracy of working)

Materials Needed:

• Printed fortress template (one per student)
• Printed instruction cards (half-page format)
• Coloured pencils, markers or crayons
• Pencil and working out paper (optional for solving calculations)

How to Use:

1. Assign each student a version of the instruction card based on their level of understanding.
2. Students solve the fraction problems on the card and follow the instructions to colour their fortress accordingly.
3. Encourage students to show working on a separate sheet if needed.
4. Compare completed fortresses for accuracy, creativity and correct interpretation of instructions.
5. Display finished fortresses around the classroom as a visual celebration of maths learning.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use during your fractions unit as a consolidation task
• 💡 Add to your maths rotations as a creative independent activity
• 💡 Assign different versions across mixed-ability groups
• 💡 Laminate templates for reuse with whiteboard markers in small groups
• 💡 Use as a calming end-of-week task to reinforce key skills

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Print instruction cards on different coloured paper to easily track which version students are using
• 💛 Encourage students to check their working out before colouring
• 💛 Offer fraction walls or number lines as visual support
• 💛 Challenge fast finishers to create their own instruction card for a peer to solve

Fraction Fortress is a creative, differentiated and effective way to bring your fractions unit to life. With options for support and extension built in, it’s a flexible resource that blends rigour with fun, making maths meaningful and memorable.