Stage 3 · Fractions & Decimals

3.2.4 Finding a Common Denominator: Turning Them into the Same Size Part

3.2 Different Looks for the Same Amount: Equivalence, Reducing, and Common Denominators

Point 4 of 5

3.2.4 Finding a Common Denominator: Turning Them into the Same Size Part

Core idea

Cut both 1/2 and 1/3 into 6 parts so they become 3/6 and 2/6 — once the pieces are the same size they're easy to compare and easy to add.

Module goal. Understand that "cutting finer makes more parts but the same amount," and master equivalent fractions, reducing to lowest terms, and finding common denominators for comparing and calculating.
eastmath.com · 3.2 Different Looks for the Same Amount: Equivalence, Reducing, and Common Denominators · 3.2.4 Finding a Common Denominator: Turning Them into the Same Size Part