Adding and subtracting fractions Spot the Mistake

KS2Gems has developed an engaging educational resource for Year 5 students to enhance their understanding of fraction calculations. This resource, titled "Spot the Mistake," presents a series of ten deliberately incorrect fraction calculations, with five focused on addition and five on subtraction. The fractions involved either have the same denominator or denominators that are multiples of the same number. The aim of the activity is threefold: students must identify the error, articulate the nature of the mistake, and then perform the calculation correctly. This approach not only tests students' knowledge but also encourages deep thinking and the use of precise mathematical language.

The "Spot the Mistake" activity is designed to be versatile, suitable for initiating or wrapping up a lesson, or even for addressing specific errors observed in students' work. Each slide displays a fraction calculation that is incorrect, such as 3/4 + 2/8 = 5/12 or 5/28 + 4/7 = 1/14. Students are challenged to scrutinise these calculations to discover where the mistake lies. By doing so, they practice critical skills such as identifying equivalent fractions, finding common denominators, and accurately adding or subtracting fractions. This interactive and reflective exercise is an excellent tool for reinforcing fraction concepts and ensuring students are well-equipped to handle these calculations with confidence.