In this lesson plan from Illuminations, students use relationship rods to explore fraction relationships. Relationship rods range in length from one to ten centimeters, and each rod is a different color. An activity sheet with solutions, questions for students, assessment options, and suggested extension activities are included. The lesson plan is part of a five lesson plan unit, Fun with Fractions, which is cataloged separately.

Students will divide fraction bars into unit fractions, shade fraction, and write the sum of the fraction units. 

I use this activity to help students develop a deeper understanding for unit fractions.