Adding Fractions With Unlike Denominators Worksheets
Free printable adding fractions with unlike denominators worksheets with answer keys. Add and subtract fractions with different denominators, such as 2/3 + 1/4.
Using this page
Add and subtract fractions with different denominators, such as 2/3 + 1/4. The Common Core's Grade 5 standard asks students to replace the fractions with equivalent ones that share a denominator. Answers in the key are in simplest form, with mixed numbers for totals over one. Suits around Year 6 and Year 7 in Australia and Grade 5 in the US (Common Core 5.NF.A.1), but use whatever level fits the child.
Tips
- Draw a quick bar or circle when a question feels abstract; pictures make fraction rules make sense.
- Say fractions in words, such as 'three eighths', to keep the size of the parts in mind.
- Simplify answers at the end unless your class does it differently.
- Link fractions to money and time: a quarter of a dollar is 25 cents and a quarter of an hour is 15 minutes.
Worked example
2/3 + 1/4. A common denominator is 12. 2/3 = 8/12 and 1/4 = 3/12, and 8/12 + 3/12 = 11/12. For 5/6 − 1/4, use 12 again: 10/12 − 3/12 = 7/12.
Common mistakes
Adding tops and bottoms: 2/3 + 1/4 = 3/7. Find a common denominator first.
Changing the denominator but not the numerator, so 2/3 becomes 2/12.
How to use this generator
Choose the options above the sheet: the number of questions and the settings for this kind of worksheet. Every change makes a new sheet straight away, and New worksheet gives a different set of questions with the same settings.
Each sheet has a worksheet number printed at the top. Type the same number later, or keep the page link, to print exactly the same questions and answer key again. Leave Answer key page ticked to print the answers on a second page, then press Print. Every printed page carries the makekite logo and web address.
Common questions
Which common denominator should I use?
Any common multiple works, but the lowest common multiple keeps numbers small. Multiplying the two denominators always works too.
How are answers written in the key?
Fraction answers are given in simplest form, and answers greater than one are written as mixed numbers, such as 1 1/3.
Can I print the same worksheet again?
Yes. Note the worksheet number printed at the top, or keep the link in your browser's address bar, which ends with that number. Entering it later gives the same questions and answers.
Is it free?
Yes. There is no sign-up, and nothing you choose is sent anywhere: the sheets are made in your browser.