Add & subtract fractions
This lesson uses a program that presents strips can be labelled as decimals, vulgar fractions or percentages. As in the previous activities, ‘Simplifying Fractions’ and ‘Comparing Fractions’, different parts can be coloured to allow easier visual comparisons to be made.

The program may be most useful in Year 7 but it is a flexible resource that will be useful across a wide range of groups. It is designed for use with whole group teaching using an interactive whiteboard or with a data projector and a whiteboard. It could also be used as by small groups or individuals to explore the concept of fractions.

Year 7 objectives covered:
  • Add and subtract simple fractions and those with common denominators.
  • Add and subtract fractions by writing them with a common denominator.
The program provides the possibility of displaying a strip or strips of fractions which help your pupils to better understand the concept of a common denominator and why this is useful when adding and subtracting fractions.

The program (in a variety of formats) and guidance for using it can be downloaded from the link below. You may find it helpful to watch the short video (included with the activity resources) of a teacher demonstrating the software and using it in a lesson.

Download resources