Grab This Set of Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators Word Problems

If your students have mastered strategies such as using number lines, pictorial models or the standard algorithm to add fractions with unlike denominators, they are most likely ready to apply these skills to worded problems. Solving word problems is one way the students can link concepts to their real-world applications.

This set of 24 task cards contains a range of word problems that require students to add fractions with unlike denominators. Both mixed and non-mixed fractions are included in the questions. Students should be encouraged to use whatever strategy works best for them to solve the problems.

Here is an example word problem:

Marie had a large protein bar. She gave two-sixths of it to her friend. Then she ate two-fifths of it. How much of the protein bar was eaten altogether?

The resource download includes:

• Instruction Page
• Task Cards
• Recording Sheet
• Answer Page

We have provided an easy-print PDF or an editable Google Slides version of these adding fractions with unlike denominators word problems.

This set of task cards would perfectly complement any maths lesson focused on applying strategies to solve word problems involving the addition of fractions with unlike denominators.

Differentiate These Adding Unlike Fractions Word Problems

Set your students up for success to engage with this resource, regardless of their mathematical ability! Here are some suggestions as to how you might differentiate this resource for all learners:

• Support less confident students by choosing a select number of word problems to tackle in a small group setting. Read the problem together as a group, then have the students identify the key information needed to solve the problem (such as the quantities involved). Have students use mini-whiteboards to show their working as they use a strategy of their choice to work out the answer. Discuss the various strategies as a group so that all students are exposed to them.
• More confident students should be encouraged to tackle the problems independently. Set any fast finishers the challenge of adding an additional step to a selection of word problems. This could be an extra addition step or even a subtraction step (if the students are familiar with this concept).

Download These Adding Unlike Fractions Word Problems

Use the Download button above to select your chosen file format.

As this resource contains an answer page, we recommend printing one copy of the entire file, removing the answer page, then making further copies if required.

Print the cards on cardboard to increase the durability of the resource. Place the cards together in a large envelope or ziplock bag for safekeeping.

This resource was created by Cassandra Friesen, a Teach Starter collaborator.

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