Fractions can only be added when their parts are the same size. Year 6 children change one fraction so both have the same denominator, add them and simplify the answer.
What your child will learn
- Simplify fractions with larger numbers
- Add fractions whose denominators are different
- Find a fraction of a larger amount
Make the parts match
To add 1/2 and 1/4, turn the half into quarters: 1/2 = 2/4. Then 2/4 + 1/4 = 3/4. Never add the denominators — 1/2 + 1/4 is not 2/6, which would be smaller than the half you started with.
Example questions
Here are a few questions like the ones in the first quest. Can you solve them?
1. Simplify 12/36.
Show answer
Answer: 1/3. Divide the top and the bottom by 12: 12 ÷ 12 = 1, 36 ÷ 12 = 3.
2. Simplify 9/36.
Show answer
Answer: 1/4. Divide the top and the bottom by 9: 9 ÷ 9 = 1, 36 ÷ 9 = 4.
3. Simplify 10/40.
Show answer
Answer: 1/4. Divide the top and the bottom by 10: 10 ÷ 10 = 1, 40 ÷ 10 = 4.
Tips for grown-ups
- Use a measuring jug: half a cup plus a quarter of a cup.
- Fold paper strips into halves, quarters and eighths and line them up.