Year 6 - Maths
Explain with and without images how to add and subtract related non-unit fractions bridging a whole
Addition and subtraction of fractions
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will explain how to write a fraction in its simplest form when solving addition and subtraction problems.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to explain with and without an image how to add and subtract related non-unit fractions that bridge a whole.
Key Notes
- Fractions need to have the same denominator if you are to add and subtract them.
- When adding or subtracting fractions with the same denominators you just add or subtract the numerators.
- When the sum of the numerators is greater than the denominator you can convert the improper fraction to a mixed number.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Common denominator: When two or more fractions share the same denominator, you can say they have a common denominator.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Pupils think that the largest denominator of the related fraction should only be used as the common denominator.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
Fractions need to have the same denominator if you are to add and subtract them. When adding or subtracting fractions with the same denominators you just add or subtract the numerators.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Common denominator'
When two or more fractions share the same denominator, you can say they have a common denominator. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Pupils think that the largest denominator of the related fraction should only be used as the common denominator. Correction: Provide examples where fractions can be scaled up or scaled down to find an appropriate common denominator and encourage pupils to discuss which strategy they prefer and why.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Add and subtract non-related fractions with different denominators Study Guide
- Explain how to add related unit fractions with a representation or image Study Guide
- Explain how to add related unit fractions without a representation or image Study Guide
- Explain how to subtract related unit fractions Study Guide
- Explain how to write a fraction in its simplest form Study Guide
- Explain with and without an image how to add and subtract related non-unit fractions Study Guide
- Reason about how to write a fraction in its simplest form Study Guide
- Use knowledge of adding and subtracting related unit fractions to solve problems Study Guide
- Use knowledge of fractions in their simplest form when solving addition and subtraction problems Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 6 Maths guide library.