Adding Fractions in 5th Grade

1. Rename before you add

For 1/2 + 1/3, use sixths. One half is 3/6 and one third is 2/6. Add the numerators: 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6. Keep the denominator six because the pieces are still sixths.

2. Choose a shared denominator

For 3/4 + 1/8, eighths work because 8 is a multiple of both 4 and 8. Rename 3/4 as 6/8, then add: 6/8 + 1/8 = 7/8. A common denominator works; choosing the least common denominator often keeps the numbers smaller.

3. Simplify the result

For 2/5 + 1/10, rename 2/5 as 4/10. Then 4/10 + 1/10 = 5/10. Divide both numbers by five to simplify: 5/10 = 1/2.

4. When the sum is greater than one

For 5/6 + 1/4, use twelfths: 10/12 + 3/12 = 13/12. Twelve twelfths make one whole, leaving one twelfth. So 13/12 = 1 1/12. Since 5/6 is close to one, an answer greater than one makes sense.

5. Avoid adding the denominators

One half plus one third is not 2/5. Fifths are a different size from both halves and thirds. Model both fractions with the same-sized whole, split them into sixths, then combine the five shaded sixths.

Keep practising

Review why equivalent fractions have the same value · Get the free worksheets and answer key

Try a short game, then explain one answer using a drawing or an equation. Game modes can be switched off for simple answer buttons.

Examples and answers checked on 31 October 2026. Help review these public resources.