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Summaries · Grade 5 Maths › Fractions: add, subtract and compare
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Fractions: add, subtract and compare

Numerator and denominator, comparing, equivalent fractions and adding and subtracting with the same denominator. Read one part at a time and tap “I know this”. Then test yourself in the quiz.

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What is a fraction?

A fraction is part of a whole. The denominator (bottom) says into how many equal parts the whole is cut; the numerator (top) says how many parts we have.

1 whole½²⁄₄½ = ²⁄₄: the same amount
½ = ²⁄₄
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Compare, equivalent and simplify

  • Same denominator: bigger numerator = bigger fraction: ⅗ > ⅖.
  • Same numerator: bigger denominator = smaller pieces: ⅓ > ⅕.
  • Equivalent fractions: multiply or divide top and bottom by the same number: ½ = ²⁄₄ = ³⁄₆.
  • Simplify: divide top and bottom by the same factor: ⁶⁄₈ = ¾.
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Adding and subtracting

Rule

When the denominators are the same, add or subtract only the numerators; the denominator stays the same: ⅖ + ⅕ = ⅗; ⅞ − ⅜ = ⁴⁄₈ = ½.

Watch out

Never add the denominators: ⅖ + ⅕ is not ³⁄₁₀.

Mixed numbers: add or subtract the whole numbers first, then the fractions: 2⅓ + 1⅓ = 3⅔; 3¾ − 1¼ = 2²⁄₄ = 2½. If the fraction part is 1 or more, make a whole from it: 1⅗ + 2⅘ = 3⁷⁄₅ = 4⅖.

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Counting in fractions and comparing to twelfths

  • Count on in quarters: ¼; ½; ¾; 1; 1¼; 1½ …
  • Compare ⅔ and ¾: make both twelfths. ⅔ = ⁸⁄₁₂ and ¾ = ⁹⁄₁₂, so ¾ is bigger.
  • Order from small to big: ⁵⁄₁₂; ½; ⅔; ¾ (that is ⁵⁄₁₂; ⁶⁄₁₂; ⁸⁄₁₂; ⁹⁄₁₂).
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Remember this and test yourself

Remember this: your summary
  • Denominator = number of equal parts; numerator = how many we have.
  • Bigger denominator = smaller pieces.
  • Equivalent: multiply top and bottom by the same number.
  • Adding and subtracting with the same denominator: only the numerators change.
  • Simplify by dividing top and bottom.

Write these points in your book. Read them again the night before the test.

Memory trick

The denominator names the kind of piece; the numerator counts how many you have.

Flash cards · Tap to turn over

Important words

First say the answer yourself, then turn the card over.

Now the real quiz!

The quiz has many more questions on this topic. Every question shows straight away whether you are right and explains why.

Take the quiz: Fractions: add, subtract and compare
Practise it step by step: Extra Maths ClassAll Grade 5 Maths summaries
For parents
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Follows CAPS for Grade 5 Mathematics. Always check your teacher’s notes and textbook too.

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