Fractions foundations
Equivalent fractions: why 3/4 equals 6/8
Use equal-length fraction bars to see equivalent fractions, work through an example and check your understanding.
Read and practise →Maths learning pathway
Fractions
Make the size of the parts visible before working with the numbers.
Start with the first unfamiliar idea. Each guide has a worked example and a short practice check.
Find the fraction idea your child needs next
If homework has become a list of rules to memorise, start by asking your child to draw the amount. These guides connect pictures, explanations and practice. You can use the same starting point across different school systems; match the task to your child’s current learning.
Helping your child with fractions? Start with this parent guide →
- Different-looking fractions should show the same amount: start with equivalent fractions.
- “An eighth is bigger than a quarter”: revisit the size of equal parts.
- Adding the top and bottom numbers: practise adding fractions with matching parts.
- Unsure how to reduce an answer: use simplifying fractions.
- Pictures make sense but word problems do not: try fractions of a quantity.
After equivalent fractions
Simplifying fractions without changing the amount
Learn why dividing both parts of a fraction by a common factor gives an equivalent fraction. Includes worked examples and practice.
Read and practise →After fraction notation
Comparing fractions with equal wholes
Compare fractions using equal wholes and common denominators. See why a larger denominator can mean a smaller piece.
Read and practise →After equivalent fractions
Adding fractions: match the parts first
Add fractions with the same or different denominators using common-sized parts, with exact worked answers and short practice.
Read and practise →After division and fraction notation
Finding a fraction of an amount
Find fractions of a quantity by dividing into equal parts and taking the required number of parts.
Read and practise →Grade-specific guides from our course
- Grade 5 Mixed Numbers and Improper Fractions
- Grade 5 Dividing with Unit Fractions: Sharing and Measuring
- Grade 5 Probability as a Fraction: Equally Likely Outcomes
- Grade 8 Sample Spaces: Two Coins, Dice and Probability
- Grade 8 Experimental Probability and Relative Frequency
- Grade 8 Complement Probability and Two-Way Tables
Would a teacher help with the next step?
Bring one example your child found difficult to a free 50-minute session. Tell us their grade, curriculum and time zone when you enquire.
Request a free session