Simplifying Fractions Made Easy
Simplifying fractions is the process of making the numbers in the fraction as small as possible while keeping the value of the fraction the same. This means that we are just changing the appearance of the fraction. In the same way that 200 cents is the same value as 2 dollars, simplifying fractions just makes them easier to look at.The image to the right shows three fractions of the same value, called equivalent fractions. In each the amount of apple pie coloured in is the same, only the number of pieces it is cut into is different. While making equivalent fractions uses multiplication, simplifying uses division to change the numbers involved. This is best demonstrated using rectangular fractions. An Example In the following example the fraction is shown before and after simplification, with the number used to divide the original fraction being shown in red. Note how the amount of the shape that is coloured in does not change.
Divide By The Largest Number In many cases the numbers on the top and bottom of the fraction can be divided by more than one amount. Consider the following example:
All the divisions shown give whole numbers on the top and bottom of the fraction, but dividing by 6 gives the smallest possible whole numbers in the simplified fraction. Times Tables To be fast and accurate with this requires a thorough knowledge of the multiplication tables. Being familiar with these tables will help your child see into the numbers that make up the fraction and to then also see what the simplification will be. Have a look at this example:
This is clearly the quickest way to make the fraction simplified. Top Of Page Return from Simplifying Fractions to Free Math Worksheets or return to the Green Planet home page for Solar Power Facts.
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