Adding fractions with the same denominators is a Number concept that teachers introduce to students earlier in primary schools. In some countries, ‘same’ denominators are referred to as ‘related’ denominators. ‘Same denominators or related denominators mean the same.
In this post, you will find out how to add fractions with the same denominators using practice questions and Quiz questions and answers.
The fractions with the same denominators are easily added (and or subtracted) because both fractions can assume a same base.
What are fractions with related or same denominators?
Related denominator occurs where the denominators of two or more fractions are the same. In cases where denominators are different, make them the same by finding the lowest common multiple (LCM) of the denominators you are dealing with.
The lowest common multiple (LCM) is the lowest number that both numbers have as a multiple. So the lowest common multiple of 3 and 4 is 12.
Learn to add fractions the easy way
I converted the addition and subtraction of fractions into a worksheet for students to revise their number skills. The answers to the practice and quiz questions are also here. Download the worksheet.
Additionally, here is a fraction workbook that provides great value if you need more practice. Do not miss it.
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How to add fractions with same denominators
Here is how to simplify fractions with the same denominators when adding (or subtracting). Note that subtracting fractions also follows the same steps:
• Identify the multiple of the denominators;
• Make denominators the same; and
• Simplify by adding or subtracting.
Example:
Practice 1: Adding these fractions. Show the working out in full.
1) 2/3 + 1/6 =
2) 3/5 + 1/3 =
Practice 2: Subtract fractions with the same denominators. Show the working out in full.
1) 2/3 – 1/6 =
2) 3/5 – 1/3 =
Quiz Q & A: Adding and subtracting fractions
1) Which denominator, given in the brackets, is ‘unrelated’ to the pair of fractions.
A. ½ & 5/10 (10)
B. 1/3 & 2/7 (14)
C. 5/9 & 2/3 (9)
D. ¾ & 1/13 (52)
2) What is the lowest common multiple of the related denominators in 3/8 & 1/6?
A. 6
B. 8
C. 14
D. 24
3) Simplify: 4/15 + 2/3
A. 1/15
B. 1/3
C. 2/15
D. 14/15
4) Simplify: 7/9 – 1/3
A. 1/3
B. 4/9
C. 8/13
D. 5/12
Fractions skill worksheets and links
Working with fractions at Year 6 (Grade 6) level can be challenging. But practising these basic fractions, percentages and decimals skills will help. Check this (10 common repeating fractions) and this (Turn Decimal to Fraction or Percentage Q & A) fractions skill practice exercise and worksheets.
The two articles above are a part of the work on decimals, fractions and percentages. It is aimed to reinforce the concepts, learnt at primary schools, with practice exercises and maths quizzes to take at the end.
The articles below are free maths resources for students at Grades 6 and 8 entry levels. We hope that the resources are helpful. Check them out and let us know what you think.