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Grade 5/Fractions

➖ Subtracting Like Fractions

Students practice subtracting fractions with the same denominator. This builds on addition skills and reinforces the concept that the denominator represents the unit size.
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➖ Subtracting Like Fractions preview

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#WorksheetQuestionsActions
Easy
1
8 questions
2
8 questions
Medium
1
12 questions
2
12 questions
Hard
1
12 questions
2
12 questions
Prerequisites
➕ Adding Like Fractions6 WS

15 + 25 = ___

What to Do Next
➕ Adding Mixed Numbers6 WS

1 13 + 2 13 = ___

Practice Questions

  1. 4/5 - 1/5 = ?
    Show answer

    3/5

  2. 6/7 - 2/7 = ?
    Show answer

    4/7

  3. 3/4 - 1/4 = ?
    Show answer

    2/4

  4. 7/8 - 2/8 = ?
    Show answer

    5/8

  5. 8/9 - 4/9 = ?
    Show answer

    4/9

Teacher Resources
Teaching Notes

Ensure students understand they are taking away parts from the whole. The size of the parts (denominator) does not change.

Vocabulary
Subtract: Take away one number from another.
Like fractions: Fractions with the same denominator.
Common Mistakes
  • Subtracting denominators (e.g., 4/7 - 1/7 = 3/0)
  • Subtracting denominators
  • Not simplifying answers
  • Ignoring unit size
  • Misinterpreting numerator
Differentiation
SupportUse manipulatives.
ChallengeSubtract from 1 whole (e.g., 1 - 1/4).
Discussion Questions
  • Can you subtract a bigger fraction from a smaller one?
  • How is this like regular subtraction?
  • Why do denominators stay the same?
  • How is this like adding fractions?
  • When might you subtract fractions?
  • What if numerators are the same?
Extension Activities
  • Word problems.
  • Missing subtrahend problems.
Parent Tip

Use a ruler marked in fractions to practice subtracting like lengths.

Learning Path
Skill Cluster

Fractions and Operations

Estimated Time

15 minutes

Skills Practiced
Subtract like fractions