Model subtracting unlike fractions

5th Grade Math practice: Use fraction pieces to think about 3/4 - 1/2.. Part of fractions (Compare fractions).

~7 min

Rename the fractions using a common denominator so the pieces match.

Finding Common Denominators

2/4 shaded

To subtract fractions with different denominators, you must first rename them as equivalent fractions with the same denominator. This ensures that you are subtracting pieces of the same size.

💡 Think of finding a common multiple for both denominators to create equivalent pieces.