We have started simplifying fractions and most Grade 4 students are becoming very accurate at this task.
We use factor trees to help us work out the factors for each number.
We then break the number up into its factors and cancel out ones that are the same. This leaves us with a simplified fraction.
It looks difficult but is actually very easy when you space out your work and do it step by step.
Use factor trees to find out the factors of each number in the fraction.
We circle the prime number - lowest it can go so we know we ones to use in the next step.
The factors of 12 are 3, 2 & 2.
This means 3 x 2 x 2 = 12
There is a factor of 3 on top and on the bottom. These cancel each other out.
We then put any remaining factors together. 2 x 2 = 4
Then we see what is left.
12 / 27 is the same as 4 / 9
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