5 Common Mistakes in Grade 5 Fractions (and How to Fix Them)

Fractions are one of the biggest topics in Grade 5 maths. Here are five mistakes students often make, and a simple fix for each. Adding the bottom numbers. A student writes 1/4 + 1/4 = 2/8. The fix: the bottom number (denominator) shows the size of the pieces, so it stays the same. The answer is 2/4. Skipping the common denominator. To add 1/2 + 1/3, first change both to sixths: 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6. Forgetting to simplify. 4/8 is correct, but 1/2 is the final answer. Ask: “Can both numbers be divided by the same number?” Thinking a bigger bottom number means a bigger fraction. 1/8 is smaller than 1/4, because the whole is cut into more pieces. Drawing two bars helps. Mixing up mixed numbers. Before adding or subtracting, turn 2 1/3 into 7/3, or work with the whole numbers and fractions separately. A tip for parents: ask your child to explain each step in their own words. If they can explain it, they understand it. Want your child to practise with a teacher? Book a free demo class and see how a 1:1 online lesson works.