Adding and Subtracting Fractions Mastery

Year 6 Mathematics National Curriculum for England 60-minute lesson for 18 pupils

Lesson Overview

Master adding and subtracting all types of fractions Work with proper fractions, improper fractions, and mixed numbers Use equivalent fractions to solve problems Apply skills to real-world situations Build confidence through guided practice

National Curriculum Links

Year 6 Mathematics – Number: Fractions, decimals and percentages Add and subtract fractions with different denominators Work with mixed numbers using equivalent fractions Solve problems involving fraction calculations Develop fluency and reasoning skills

Learning Objectives

Recognise proper fractions, improper fractions, and mixed numbers Add and subtract fractions with different denominators Convert between improper fractions and mixed numbers Find lowest common denominators (LCD) Simplify answers to their simplest form Explain methods and reasoning clearly

Fraction Types Starter Activity

Look at the fractions displayed Sort them into categories: proper, improper, mixed numbers Discuss with your partner Be ready to explain your thinking

Types of Fractions Recap

Proper fractions: numerator < denominator (e.g., 3/4) Improper fractions: numerator ≥ denominator (e.g., 5/3) Mixed numbers: whole number + fraction (e.g., 2 1/4) Unit fractions: numerator = 1 (e.g., 1/5) All can be added and subtracted using the same principles

Adding Fractions - Same Denominator

When denominators are the same, add the numerators Keep the denominator the same Example: 2/7 + 3/7 = 5/7 Always check if your answer can be simplified Practice: 1/5 + 2/5 = ?

Adding Fractions - Different Denominators

Guided Practice - Different Denominators

Work with your partner on mini whiteboards Solve: 1/3 + 1/4 Show all your working Explain your method to your partner Be ready to share your solution

Working with Mixed Numbers

Method 1: Convert to improper fractions first Method 2: Add/subtract whole numbers and fractions separately Example: 2 1/3 + 1 2/5 Convert: 7/3 + 7/5 = 35/15 + 21/15 = 56/15 = 3 11/15 Always convert back to mixed numbers when appropriate

Quick Check Understanding

What is 1 3/4 - 2/3? Think about your method Show your working Discuss with the person next to you

Fraction Card Challenge

Work in groups of 6 Use fraction cards to create addition/subtraction problems Solve your problems using fraction strips Present one solution to the class Explain your method clearly