NumberKey Stage 3

Dividing fractions

Divide by a fraction by multiplying by its reciprocal.

  • Keep the first fraction as it is.
  • Change division to multiplication and turn the second fraction upside down.
  • Multiply, then cancel the highest common factor if needed. You cannot divide by zero.

Example 1

Use the reciprocal

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Keep the first fraction and multiply by the reciprocal of the second.Highest common factor: 2.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.

Example 2

An answer greater than 1

Work out the result and simplify fully.

Keep the first fraction and multiply by the reciprocal of the second.Highest common factor: 4.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.

Remember
Only take the reciprocal of the fraction you are dividing by.

Your turn

Question 1

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Keep the first fraction and multiply by the reciprocal of the second.Highest common factor: 2.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 2

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Keep the first fraction and multiply by the reciprocal of the second.Highest common factor: 5.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 3

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Keep the first fraction and multiply by the reciprocal of the second.Highest common factor: 21.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 4

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Keep the first fraction and multiply by the reciprocal of the second.Highest common factor: 3.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
Question 5

Calculate. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Check answer
Keep the first fraction and multiply by the reciprocal of the second.Highest common factor: 21.Cancel the common factor from top and bottom.
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