Fractions in Plain English (with a 7-day mini plan)

Fractions are just equal parts of a whole.

If your child finds fractions confusing, it’s usually because they’re trying to memorise rules before they can “see” what a fraction means. We fix that by building three foundations in the right order — then practising in short, repeatable sessions.

Related guides: Maths (7–11) · Study Skills & Focus · All blog posts

Who this is for

• Kids aged 7–11 who freeze when they see a fraction.
• Parents who want a clear way to help without long sessions.
• Tutors who need a simple progression that builds confidence quickly.

The big idea: fractions aren’t “hard” — they’re visual

Most fraction mistakes come from one problem: the child can’t picture what the numbers mean.

• The denominator (bottom number) tells you how many equal parts the whole is split into.
• The numerator (top number) tells you how many parts you have.

The 3 foundations (in the right order)

Master these and most fraction questions become much easier:

1. Equivalent fractions

   Different-looking fractions that are the same value (like 1/2 and 2/4).

   Why it matters: it’s the key to simplifying, comparing, and adding later.

2. Comparing fractions

   Deciding which fraction is bigger — without guessing.

   Why it matters: it stops “random answers” and builds number sense.

3. Adding and subtracting (same denominator)

   If the bottom number is the same, you combine the top numbers and keep the denominator.

   Why it matters: it makes the “rules” feel logical instead of magical.

Three fast visuals that make fractions click

Rotate these — don’t stick to only one. Different kids “see” fractions differently.

• Shapes: circles/rectangles split into equal parts (best for first understanding).
• Bar models: one long bar split into equal blocks (best for equivalence).
• Number lines: from 0 to 1 split into equal jumps (best for comparing).

A 7-day plan (10–15 minutes a day)

This is short on purpose. You’re building confidence and clarity, not doing long sessions.

• Day 1–2: halves, quarters, thirds using pictures (shapes, bars, number lines)
  Goal: they can point to 1/2, 1/3, 1/4 and explain what the bottom number means.
• Day 3–4: equivalence — same value, different look (e.g. 1/2 = 2/4 = 3/6)
  Goal: they can say “these are the same amount” and show it with a bar.
• Day 5: compare fractions by using common denominators (make the bottoms match)
  Shortcut: if denominators match, bigger numerator = bigger fraction.
• Day 6: add/subtract with the same denominator (keep the bottom, change the top)
  Rule with meaning: you’re combining the same-sized pieces.
• Day 7: mixed review + a simple 5-question quiz
  Goal: they feel “I get it now” — not “I survived.”

Common mistakes (and the quick fix)

• “Bigger denominator means bigger fraction”
  Fix: show pizza slices — eighths are smaller than quarters.
• Adding denominators (e.g. 1/4 + 1/4 = 2/8)
  Fix: remind them the piece size didn’t change — you just have more of the same pieces.
• Comparing by guessing
  Fix: use a bar model and line them up to the same whole.

Try this next

For the first two days, make it real:

• Food: pizza, toast, chocolate, fruit — “Show me one half / one quarter.”
• Paper folding: fold a sheet into halves, quarters, and thirds, then label the parts.

When they can see fractions, the rules stop feeling random.

Want a low-friction way to practise little-and-often? Use the free Classroom Trial as your daily 10-minute block.

If careless errors are what’s holding them back (especially under time pressure), pair this with: How to Stop Careless Mistakes.