Adding & Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators Lesson Plan

Introduction

As a hook, ask students if they have ever shared a pizza or a candy bar with friends and how they would figure out how much each person gets if everyone takes the same size piece. Refer to the last page of the guided notes as well as the FAQs below for ideas.

Use the first page of the guided notes to introduce what fractions with like denominators are and how adding fractions means putting together parts of the same whole. Walk through identifying the numerator and denominator, understanding that the denominator stays the same when adding or subtracting fractions with like denominators, and how to add the numerators directly. Refer to the FAQ below for a walkthrough on this and ideas on how to respond to common student questions such as "Why don't we add the denominators?" or "What does it mean to have the same denominator?"

Use the second page of the guided notes to introduce subtracting fractions with like denominators. Guide students through how to subtract the numerators while keeping the denominator the same, using area models to visualize taking away parts of the whole, and working through several checks for understanding embedded in the notes. Refer to the FAQ below for detailed guidance on supporting students who confuse when to add or subtract and on how to explain why denominators do not change.

If student responses show difficulty with the basic concept of like denominators or adding/subtracting numerators, pause to reteach those foundational ideas using hands-on fraction strips or drawing more area models as visuals. If your class has a wide range of proficiency levels, consider pulling out students who need extra support for small-group reteaching while having more advanced or confident students begin exploring the practice exercises included in the resource.

Practice

Have students practice adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators using the color by code and maze activities. Walk around to answer student questions.

Fast finishers can dive into the problem sets for extra practice. You can assign it as homework for the remainder of the class.

Real-Life Application

Bring the class back together, and introduce the concept of using adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators to solve real-world problems, such as measuring ingredients in cooking or dividing up a shared resource. Use examples like combining parts of a recipe or calculating how much of a yard of fabric remains after using some. Refer to the FAQ for more ideas on how to teach it!

Extensions

Additional Self-Checking Digital Practice

If you’re looking for digital practice for adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators, try my Pixel Art activities in Google Sheets. Every answer is automatically checked, and correct answers unlock parts of a mystery picture. It’s incredibly fun, and a powerful tool for differentiation.

Here are 4 activities to explore:

• Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators Digital Pixel Art Visual Models
• Adding and Subtracting Mixed Numbers with Like Denominators Digital Pixel Art
• Adding Fractions with Like Denominators Digital Pixel Art Visual Models 4.NF.B.3
• Adding and Subtracting Fractions w Like Denominators Digital Pixel Art Halloween