Topics · Fractions & Decimals
Using fractions
When the parts are the same size, you can add and subtract fractions by counting the parts.
Half a cup plus a quarter cup — real recipes need this.
More ways into this idea
Step into a storyThe Ribbon WorkshopOne roll of ribbon, three banners — will it stretch?- Test yourselfA fresh mixed set, whenever you likeExplanations after every question. Nothing is recorded.
Common sticking points
- A common sticking point is adding the bottom numbers too (1/4 + 2/4 = 3/8). The parts don't change size — only how many you have.
Try this together
Pour a snack into 4 equal piles. Eat 1 pile, then 2 more. Ask: how much of the snack is gone, in quarters? (3/4 — and the piles never changed size.)
1–5 minutes, no materials to buy, nothing to hand in.
Ontario curriculum details
- B2.5Add and subtract fractions with like denominators
Plain-language summaries. See the full curriculum for every expectation and the official source.