Equivalent fractions · Year 6

In Year 6 you learn: comparing fractions with different denominators.

Equivalent fractions look different but stand for the same amount: 1/2, 2/4 and 5/10 all cover half of a shape. Spotting them lets you simplify answers, compare fractions and, later, add them.

Key facts

  • Multiply or divide the top AND the bottom by the same number to make an equivalent fraction.
  • Adding the same number to the top and bottom does NOT keep a fraction the same: 1/2 is not equal to 2/3.
  • A fraction is in its simplest form when the top and bottom have no common factor except 1.
  • To simplify in one step, divide the top and bottom by their highest common factor (HCF).
  • To compare fractions, rewrite them with the same denominator.

Worked examples

Example 1

Find the missing number n: 3/4 = n/20

Answer: 15

Example 2

Write 36/48 in its simplest form.

Answer: 3/4

Example 3

Which is bigger: 5/6 or 7/9?

Answer: 5/6

Other years