Fractions - Subtract fractions - Worksheet

The worksheet provides a structured approach for children to advance their understanding of subtracting fractions. Students are tasked with using practical equipment and pictorial representations to subtract fractions that share the same denominator within one whole. The key concept reinforced throughout the worksheet is that only the numerators are subtracted while the denominators remain unchanged. The exercises include using bar models to visualize the subtraction process, creating their own drawings to represent subtraction sentences, and solving these sentences to find the difference between fractions.

To deepen their reasoning and problem-solving skills, the worksheet challenges students to identify and correct mistakes in given calculations, find missing fractions, and compare different methods of arriving at the same result. For instance, they might explore the errors a character named Dexter has made, or compare the methods of two characters, Tia and Rosie, who both claim to have arrived at the answer of four sevenths through different processes. These activities encourage students to think critically about the steps involved in subtracting fractions and to articulate their understanding of the concepts.