Mastering Fractions: Simplify Like a Pro
Year 8 Mathematics 40 minutes Australian Curriculum
The Pizza Problem Hook
You ordered 8 slices of pizza You ate 6 slices Your friend says you ate 6/8 of the pizza But is there a simpler way to say this? Let's discover the secret!
WALT & Success Criteria
WALT: Simplify fractions using the highest common factor WALT: Convert improper fractions to mixed numbers WALT: Apply subtraction method for large fractions Success Criteria: I can find the HCF of numerator and denominator Success Criteria: I can simplify fractions to lowest terms Success Criteria: I can work with 3-digit fractions confidently
What is Simplifying Fractions?
Making fractions as simple as possible Finding the smallest equivalent fraction Both numerator and denominator become smaller The value stays exactly the same Like cleaning up messy numbers!
Method 1: Finding Common Factors
{"left":"Step 1: List factors of numerator\nStep 2: List factors of denominator\nStep 3: Find the highest common factor (HCF)\nStep 4: Divide both by the HCF\nExample: 12/18","right":"Factors of 12: 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 12\nFactors of 18: 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 18\nHCF = 6, so 12÷6 = 2, 18÷6 = 3\nAnswer: 2/3"}
Your Turn: Practice Simplifying
Simplify these fractions using the HCF method: 1) 8/12 = ? 2) 15/25 = ? 3) 20/30 = ? Work with a partner Check your answers together Raise your hand when complete!
Improper Fractions & Mixed Numbers
Improper fraction: numerator ≥ denominator Example: 7/4 (7 is bigger than 4) Convert to mixed number: whole number + proper fraction 7/4 = 1¾ (1 whole and 3/4) Method: Divide numerator by denominator Remainder becomes new numerator
Subtraction Method for Large Fractions
Perfect for 3-digit fractions! Keep subtracting the same amount from both parts Example: 144/216 Both are even: 144÷2 = 72, 216÷2 = 108 Still even: 72÷2 = 36, 108÷2 = 54 Still even: 36÷2 = 18, 54÷2 = 27 Now try 3: 18÷3 = 6, 27÷3 = 9 Final answer: 6/9 = 2/3
Challenge Question
A recipe calls for 180/240 cups of flour Can you simplify this fraction? What method will you use? Work it out step by step Discuss with your table group
Summary & Extension Activities
Today we mastered three methods of simplification HCF method for basic fractions Converting improper fractions to mixed numbers Subtraction method for large fractions Extension: Research fraction applications in cooking, construction, or music Advanced: Try simplifying fractions with prime numbers Remember: Practice makes perfect!
More Equivalent Fractions slide decks
Other ready-to-teach decks on equivalent fractions.
