Objectives

• Students will be able to reduce fractions to their simplest form.

• Students will be able to identify the Greatest Common Factor.

• Students will be able to identify factors of any given number.

Simplifying Fractions

• Reduce

• Simplest Terms/Form

• Lowest Terms/Form

Simplifying Fractions

We use simplification to find a fraction that is easier or friendlier to use. We try to find familiar fractions that we have worked with before.

For example, if we have the fraction, 36/40, we could simplify to 9/10.

Where to Start

• Look at the numerator and denominator

• Look for any patterns or fact families

• LIST OUT THE FACTORS OF BOTH THE NUMERATOR AND DENOMINATOR

Simplify

Look for the GREATEST COMMON FACTOR.

You need to find the GCF so that you can begin division to reduce the fraction down to simplest form.

Divide

• Divide the numerator by the GCF

• Divide the denominator by the GCF

Oh no! What if I forget all the factors for a number?

This happens often! Don't panic. Do what you know and reduce, reduce, reduce! Until you can't anymore! 

Select the GCF you've listed. For example, let's say our fraction is 8/24 and you choose 4 (instead of 8) as your GCF. Divide both the numerator and denominator by 4. You will get 2/6. Start the process over. List factors of 2 and 6. Divide by the GCF. You will get 1/3. 

You'll need your whiteboards and markers!

GET READY!