Complete the Common Denominator Steps
Focus: Common Denominators Using Common Multiples. Use the worked example and teaching sequence below to explain the reasoning before independent practice.
Use New Numbers to make another set. Choose Worksheet or Answer Key, then use the worksheet’s Print button.
Teaching Notes
Focus: Common Denominators Using Common Multiples. Use the worked example and teaching sequence below to explain the reasoning before independent practice.
Before You Begin
- Find multiples and equivalent fractions.
Teaching Steps for Parents and Teachers
- Find a common multiple of the denominators.
- Rewrite each fraction with that denominator.
- Multiply each numerator by the same factor used for its denominator.
- For a blank, identify the missing quantity. Substitute the completed value back into the original statement to check it.
Worked Examples
Write 1/2 and 2/3 with denominator 6.
- For 1/2, multiply numerator and denominator by 3.
- For 2/3, multiply both by 2.
Answer: 3/6 and 4/6
Common Mistakes and How to Help
Do not change a denominator without changing its numerator proportionally.
Do the rewritten fractions have the original values?
Questions to Check Understanding
- Do the rewritten fractions have the original values?
- Which step explains your answer?
- Can you apply the same reasoning when the numbers change?
Practice Advice
Work through the example together. Ask the learner to explain the first two problems, then try three independently. Review the first incorrect step before assigning more practice.
Next Practice
- Use New Numbers to practice the same skill with different values.
- If the learner needs help, return to the example and model each step before trying again.