How to Add Fractions with Different Denominators for Kids? Step by Step Explanation for Kids

While adding fractions the numerators are added and the denominator remains constant. Adding with the same denominators is not a difficult task. The trouble arises when the fractions are of different denominators because we require the same denominators for adding.

Before starting with the inner topic we need to understand what is a fraction, a like and unlike fraction and how to convert an, unlike fraction into a like fraction.

Also Read: Vedic Maths Tricks for Kids: An Innovative Way of Learning Mathematics

What is a Fraction for Kids?

Fraction for kids is trying to explain how to work fundamental math with its support. It is also one of the important skills in advanced mathematics.

Therefore, children must be able to acknowledge the idea of it completely and carry out the same when the time comes.

Fractions explained are nothing but portions of a sum, used to represent the smaller parts of a greater thing.

The portions may even be composing their numbers, but altogether they construct a whole picture.

Three Parts of Fraction

The three parts to a fraction are:

The numerator: the upper part of the fraction, the number above the dividing line.

The denominator: the lower part of the fraction, the number below the dividing line.

And the Dividing line: It is the small line that separates the numerator and the denominator.

For example, there are 8 pieces of your favourite chocolate cake you made. As you’re not sure about the taste of your chocolate cake, you decided to share 4 pieces of it with your friend to know how it is made.

In mathematical form, it is written as 4/8, with 4 as the numerator above the dividing line and 8 as the denominator below the dividing line.

Like Fractions

Fractions with different numerators and the same denominators are called Like Fractions. They can be added easily.

Examples: (1/4, 2/4, 3/4) and (2/5, 1/5, 4/5).

Unlike Fractions

Fractions with different numerators and different denominators are called, Unlike Fractions. They need to convert into like fractions before adding.

Examples: (1/2, 3/4, 1/5) and (3/6, 2/7, 5/8).

How to Convert Like Fractions into Unlike Fractions?

To convert an unlike fraction into a like fraction we have to consider the least common multiple of the denominators then finds the equivalent fractions by multiplying them to get the L.C.M as the denominator.

For example, 2/4 and 1/3 are unlike fractions, here the least common multiple of 4 and 3 is 12. Now, we need to find fractions equivalent to 2/4 and  1/3 which have 12 in the denominator. Multiply the numerator and denominator of 2/4 by 3, and multiply the numerator and denominator of 1/3 by 4.

So, therefore, 6/12 and 4/12 are like fractions with the same denominators.

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Addition of Unlike Fractions

Here is a step by step procedure to add fractions with different denominators.

Firstly we need to convert, unlike fractions into like fractions.

# Step 1: Find the least common multiple of all the denominators of the unlike terms.

# Step 2: Multiple the numerator and the denominator of the unlike term so that the denominator is equivalent to the least common multiple. Repeat the same for all the, unlike terms.

# Step 3: Keeping the denominators constant add the numerators of the like terms. Hence the sum of fractions is calculated.

Look at the solved examples given below and analyse the steps in which the problem is resolved.

Example 1

1/2+3/5

# Step 1: The least common multiple of denominators that is 2 and 5 is 10.

# Step 2:  To find equivalent fractions of 1/2 and 3/5 with denominator 10, multiply the numerator and the denominator of 1/2 by 5 and, multiply the numerator and denominator of 3/5 by 2.

# Step 3: Add the equivalent fractions that is 5/10 + 6/10 = 11/10.

# Step 4: Hence the sum of given unlike terms 1/2 and 3/5 is 11/10.

Example 2

1/6+2/4

# Step 1: The least common multiple of denominators that is 6 and 4 is 24.

# Step 2:  To find equivalent fractions of 1/6 and 2/4 with denominator 24, multiply the numerator and the denominator of 1/6 by 4 and, multiply the numerator and denominator of 2/4 by 6.

# Step 3: Add the equivalent fractions that is 4/24 + 12/24 = 16/24.

# Step 4: Hence the sum of given unlike terms 1/6and 2/4 is 16/24.

How to Explain Fractions for Kids?

Patience and motivation are the most essential things, while trying to be broad-minded about the difficulties that kids face. Children need proper attention and dignity. Encouraging the child with all support is all that is required in enhancing his bright future.

Here are some numerous ways you can keep a child’s mind divert towards the subject and ensure that it keeps up with the topic at hand, which is the fraction for kids-

# Proper guidance and support is necessary thing to guide a child along the path.

# Usage of visual techniques to help understand how to do fractions.

# Making them solve puzzles or riddles to check the ability in the subject.

# Asking tricky questions to ensure their learning and mind development.

# Usage of games to make sure that kids acknowledge what they are taught.

# Use fun tactics to instil some excitement in the child while studying.

# Practicing digitally to catch their concentration.

# Being available for them to resolve all their doubts and questions.

Also Read: Maths Quiz for Kids: Simple & Engaging Math Quiz Questions with Answers

Conclusion

I believe that the above article helped you resolve your queries regarding the topic ‘fractions for kids’. Note the above points and utilize them for a child’s better learning and brighter future.

We provide the best content for children in simple language and directed towards the topic in order to enhance their knowledge.

If you’re looking for more such articles related to kids and their well being then do visit our website The Real School Of Montessori for daily updates and the best quality matter.