Adding Fractions

Name:

Date:

1: Multiple Choice

1. What is 1/4 + 1/3?

1/7

7/12

1/12

2. What is 2/3 + 1/6?

1/2

5/6

3/4

3. What is 3/10 + 1/5?

1/2

1/5

1/3

4/10

4. What is 5/6 − 1/4?

1/12

7/12

1/2

2/3

2: Problem Solving

5. Work out 1/2 + 1/6. Show your steps (find a common denominator, rename, add, simplify):

6. Work out 2/3 + 1/4. Show your steps and give the answer in simplest form:

7. Word problem: Liam walked 3/5 km to the park and then walked another 1/10 km. How far did he walk in total? Show your method and answer in km.

8. Explain in one or two sentences: Why must we find a common denominator before adding or subtracting fractions?

✅ Success Criteria, Differentiation & Extension

Success Criteria

- Identify unlike denominators: I can tell when two fractions have different denominators.

- Find a common denominator: I can use multiplication or fraction strips to rename fractions with the same denominator.

- Add or subtract accurately: I can add/subtract numerators and simplify my answer.

- Explain method: I can describe my steps using words like numerator, denominator and equivalent.

Differentiation Strategies

Struggling learners: Use fraction strips or circles; work in small groups with guided questions; practise finding equivalent fractions before adding.

On-level learners: Use number lines and fraction strips; explain steps to a partner; complete worksheet problems independently.

Advanced learners: Tackle trickier denominators (e.g. 1/8 + 3/12), convert improper fractions to mixed numbers and create your own problems to challenge others.

Extension Activities

1. Create two fractions with denominators 8 and 12, add them, simplify and convert any improper fraction to a mixed number.

2. Write a short word problem involving measuring ingredients in cooking (grams or kilograms) that requires adding fractions; solve it and explain your steps.

Teacher note: Encourage use of fraction strips and the poster steps: find common denominator → rename fractions → add/subtract numerators → simplify. Allow 10 minutes for guided practice with partners and 10 minutes for independent work.