Simplifying a ratio

Name: _____________________ Date: __________

Show your thinking with numbers, words, or a drawing.

1. Simplify the ratio 8:20.

1. 2:5

Find the highest number that divides both 8 and 20: 4.

8 ÷ 4 = 2 and 20 ÷ 4 = 5.

So 8:20 simplifies to 2:5.

2. 3:5

Find the highest number that divides both 12 and 20: 4.

12 ÷ 4 = 3 and 20 ÷ 4 = 5.

So 12:20 simplifies to 3:5.

3. 3:4

Find the highest number that divides both 12 and 16: 4.

12 ÷ 4 = 3 and 16 ÷ 4 = 4.

So 12:16 simplifies to 3:4.

4. 1:3

Find the highest number that divides both 4 and 12: 4.

4 ÷ 4 = 1 and 12 ÷ 4 = 3.

So 4:12 simplifies to 1:3.

5. 1:4

Find the highest number that divides both 4 and 16: 4.

4 ÷ 4 = 1 and 16 ÷ 4 = 4.

So 4:16 simplifies to 1:4.

Choose a question from the printable. Use objects or a drawing to show your thinking, then explain your method to someone at home.