How to Write a Ratio

When teaching your students about the concept of a ratio in math class, you probably are sharing with them that this is a way to compare 2 or more things. As an example, if you are looking at the number of students in your class, there may be 16 girls and 12 boys. The ratio of girls to boys would be 16 to 12. This can be represented in 3 different ways. It can be shown as:

• A fraction
• With words
• With a colon

With this worksheet, students will practice writing ratios in different ways. Students will answer 20 questions where ratios are represented with either a colon, with words, or as a fraction. Students must then write the ratio 2 different ways.

An answer key is included with your download to make grading fast and easy!  

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

In addition to independent student work time, use this worksheet as an activity for:

• Guided math groups 
• Lesson wrap-up
• Fast finishers 
• Homework assignment
• Whole-class review (via smartboard)

If there are students who need a bit of a challenge, encourage them to create an equivalent ratio for each example. This can be represented in any form. 

For students who need a bit of support, consider providing them with a reference sheet or poster showing the 3 different ways a fraction can be represented. Additionally, rather than requiring these students to list 2 alternate forms for each ratio, this can be limited to one.

🖨️ Easily Download & Print

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource. 

Because this resource includes an answer sheet, we recommend you print one copy of the entire file. Then, make photocopies of the blank worksheet for students to complete. 

Turn this teaching resource into a sustainable activity by printing on cardstock and slipping it into a dry-erase sleeve. Students can record their answers with a whiteboard marker, then erase and reuse them. 

Additionally, project the worksheet onto a screen and work through it as a class by having students record their answers in their notebooks. 

Get more worksheets to have handy!

This resource was created by Cassandra Friesen, a teacher in Colorado and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

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