JENECONKMaths Universe

Subtracting Fractions

Ages 9–13

Difficulty adapts to you

Subtracting Fractions

Subtracting fractions works just like adding — same denominator: subtract numerators. Different denominators: find a common denominator first.

Your goals

  • ✓You can subtract fractions with like and unlike denominators.
  • ✓You can use common denominator, difference correctly.
  • ✓You can make denominators equal before subtracting numerators.

Words to know

common denominator:
A denominator shared by both fractions.
difference:
The result of subtraction.

Examples

  • 15/8 − 2/8 = 3/8 (same denominator)
  • 23/4 − 1/3 = 9/12 − 4/12 = 5/12 (common denominator)

Check these

  • • Do not subtract the denominators.
  • • Keep every number, symbol, label, and unit in its correct place.
  • • Show enough working to check how you reached your answer.

Helpful habits

  • • Read the whole question before choosing what to do.
  • • Show one clear step at a time and check each step.
  • • If you are stuck, draw a model, try smaller numbers, or revisit the example.

Now try your own

Create your own subtracting fractions example, solve it, and explain how you checked it.

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Helpful Hints

“Look for patterns — maths is full of them!”