Add and subtract fractions with different denominators.
Fractions with Unlike Denominators teaches fifth graders to find a common denominator to add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers. Visual models show why we need equal-size pieces before adding, making a tricky topic clear.
Math course · Grade 5
Fractions with Unlike Denominators · Learning goals
Find a common denominator to add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators.
Why it matters
Adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators is a central goal of fifth grade math.
Combining 1/2 cup and 1/3 cup or 1 1/4 hours and 2/3 hour uses exactly this skill.
Fluency with fractions is one of the best predictors of success in algebra.
Inside Fractions with Unlike Denominators
A short read-aloud lesson first, then hands-on games and a quiz to lock it in.
Step 1 · Lesson
A short read-aloud lesson in 4 steps, with pictures and worked examples.
Step 2 · Game
Make the bottoms match, then add. (6 problems)
Step 3 · Game
Make the bottoms match, then subtract. (6 problems)
Step 4 · Game
Divide to find the value. (6 problems)
Step 5 · Game
Add or subtract the fractions. (5 problems)
Lesson preview
This is the real lesson text your child hears, read aloud by a friendly voice.
To add 1/2 + 1/4, the bottoms must match. 1/2 = 2/4, so 2/4 + 1/4 = 3/4.
Find a common denominator by multiplying: for 1/3 + 1/4, use 12. 4/12 + 3/12 = 7/12.
Subtract the same way: 3/4 − 1/3 = 9/12 − 4/12 = 5/12.
Fractions are division too: 3/4 means 3 ÷ 4 = 0.75.
For parents
Learning sticks best when kids use it in real life. Here are simple ideas from this course.
Double or combine a recipe that uses different fractions of a cup. Ask your child to find the total amount using a common denominator.
Practice
Real questions from Fractions with Unlike Denominators. Try them with your child, then tap to see the answer.
Question 1
5/10
Question 2
2/6
Question 3
0.6
The full course has 23 questions with instant feedback, stars and rewards. Create a free account to play them all.
Fractions with Unlike Denominators · Questions from parents
Fractions with Unlike Denominators is a grade 5 math course for kids ages 10–11. That is Year 6 maths in the UK and Year 5 in Australia. It also works well for review in the next grade, or as a challenge for a confident younger learner.
Find a common denominator to add and subtract fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators. Along the way they practice: Add Unlike Fractions; Subtract Unlike Fractions; Fractions Are Division; Fraction Stories.
About 10 minutes in total, split into 4 short levels. Most kids finish it over two or three sessions. Progress is saved, so they can stop any time and pick up where they left off.
Fractions with Unlike Denominators is part of SkillBloom Premium, which unlocks every course in every subject. Each subject also has free courses, so your child can try SkillBloom before you decide.
No. Every lesson has a friendly read-aloud voice, questions are read aloud too, and the pictures help kids follow along. Confident readers can turn the voice off.
Yes. SkillBloom is built for homeschooling families. Kids work through lessons, games and quizzes on their own, and the parent dashboard shows what they finished and which skills need more practice. It works on phones, tablets and laptops.
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