Fraction Match: a fraction matching game
A memory game: match fraction pictures, equivalent fractions, decimals or mixed numbers. A free fraction matching game for any device. Grades 3–5.
🧒 Kids: Turn over 2 cards. Find two cards that show the same fraction, like a picture and 3/4. Find all the pairs!
How to play
- Choose what to match (pictures, equivalent fractions, decimals or mixed numbers) and how many pairs (6, 8 or 10).
- Press Deal the cards. All cards start face down.
- Turn over two cards. If they show the same amount, like a picture of 3 of 4 parts and 3/4, they stay face up.
- If they don’t match, they turn back over. Remember where they were!
- Find every pair in as few moves as you can.
What your child practices
Matching builds the idea that one amount can be shown in many ways: as a picture, as a fraction, as an equivalent fraction, as a decimal or as a mixed number. That idea is at the heart of grades 3 to 5 fraction work, from equivalent fractions (3.NF.A.3 and 4.NF.A.1) to decimals (4.NF.C.6) and mixed numbers (4.NF.B.3). Memory games also slow children down just enough to think, so they suit children who are still learning.
Which setting to choose
| Setting | Example | Good for | Learn it first |
|---|---|---|---|
| Picture and fraction | a circle with 2 of 3 parts shaded and 2/3 | Grade 3 | what are fractions |
| Equivalent fractions | 6/8 and 3/4 | Grades 3–4 | equivalent fractions, simplifying |
| Fractions and decimals | 3/4 and 0.75 | Grades 4–5 | fractions to decimals |
| Improper and mixed numbers | 11/4 and 2 3/4 | Grades 4–5 | improper fractions and mixed numbers |
Every pair is a different amount, so each card has exactly one partner. In the equivalent fractions setting, one card of each pair is always in simplest form, which makes the game good practice for simplifying too.
Once your child can clear 10 pairs in about 12 moves, the matches are well known. Try Fraction Bingo next, which adds a gentle timer.
Tips for parents
- Play together and take turns. Say each fraction out loud when you turn it over.
- Start with 6 pairs and pictures.
- When you find a pair, explain why it matches: “6/8 is 3/4 because 6 and 8 are both 2 times 3 and 4.”
- After the game, read the list of pairs on the results screen together.
- Your best (fewest moves) is saved for each setting.
In the classroom
Works well on an interactive whiteboard with two teams taking turns. For a quieter version, children play on their own devices and record their move count. The decimals setting makes a good warm-up before a lesson on tenths and hundredths.
More fraction games and practice
Games: Fraction Race · Fraction Bingo · all fraction games · division games · multiplication games · all math games
Print it: equivalent fractions worksheet and comparing fractions worksheet, with answer keys, for practice away from the screen.
Practice: fraction practice · fraction wall · fractions quiz · fraction levels
Last reviewed
Questions parents ask
How do you play Fraction Match?
Turn over two cards at a time and match cards that show the same amount, such as a picture and its fraction, or 6/8 and 3/4. Find all the pairs in as few moves as possible.
What can you match in this fraction game?
Pictures with fractions, equivalent fractions, fractions with decimals, or improper fractions with mixed numbers.
How many cards are there?
Up to 20 cards: 6, 8 or 10 pairs. Every pair is a different amount, so each card has exactly one partner.
What grade is Fraction Match for?
Grades 3 to 5. Pictures suit grade 3, equivalent fractions grades 3 and 4, and decimals and mixed numbers grades 4 and 5.
Is there a timer?
No. Fraction Match has no time pressure, which makes it a good first fraction game.