Use Common Factors to Simplify Fractions

In this activity, we will learn how to simplify fractions. 

 

This process is often carried out at the end of a fraction calculation to make the fraction more simple.

 

If we divide the top (the numerator) and the bottom (the denominator) of a fraction by the same number we get an equivalent fraction.

This is called simplifying a fraction.

 

When we simplify a fraction as much as possible, it is called reducing it to its lowest terms. 

We do this by dividing the numerator and the denominator by their highest common factor.

 

 

Let's try an example question to see how this works!

 

Example

Simplify this fraction to its lowest terms:

12/18

 

Answer

We look for the highest number that goes into 12 and 18.

12 and 18 are both in the 2, 3 and 6 times tables. 

So, 6 is their highest common factor.

 

So we divide the numerator and the denominator by 6 to simplify the fraction. 

12 ÷ 6 = 2

18 ÷ 6 = 3

 

So, our simplified fraction will be 2/3.

12/18 = 2/3

 

Now it's time to try some questions yourself.