fractionsDecimals · Year 4 · AC9M4N03
Equivalent fractions
Two fractions are equivalent when they show the same amount, even though the numbers look different. You make an equivalent fraction by multiplying the numerator (top) and the denominator (bottom) by the very same number. For 2/3, multiplying both by 4 gives 8/12 — the same slice of the whole, just cut into more pieces. The golden rule is 'whatever you do to the bottom, do to the top', and you must multiply, not add. Ask 'what was the bottom multiplied by?' then do exactly that to the top.
Sample questions
1/2 = ?/4. What is the missing numerator (as a fraction over 4)?
- The denominator goes from 2 to 4, which is × 2.
- Multiply the numerator by the same 2: 1 × 2 = 2.
- So 1/2 = 2/4.
Answer: 2/4
1/2 = ?/6. What is the missing numerator (as a fraction over 6)?
- The denominator goes from 2 to 6, which is × 3.
- Multiply the numerator by the same 3: 1 × 3 = 3.
- So 1/2 = 3/6.
Answer: 3/6
1/3 = ?/6. What is the missing numerator (as a fraction over 6)?
- The denominator goes from 3 to 6, which is × 2.
- Multiply the numerator by the same 2: 1 × 2 = 2.
- So 1/3 = 2/6.
Answer: 2/6