Equivalent fractions worksheets

Each problem shows a fraction in simplest form and an equivalent fraction with one number missing, for example 2/3 = ?/12 or 3/5 = 9/?. Students work out what the numerator and denominator were both multiplied by and fill in the missing number. Most problems ask for the numerator, and some ask for the denominator, so students cannot just follow one pattern.

When to use it

Use this sheet after students have seen with fraction strips or area models that 1/2 and 2/4 cover the same amount. Equivalent fractions come before comparing fractions and before adding fractions with different denominators, so this is a good sheet to come back to during a fractions unit.

Teaching tips

• Start with a picture: shade 2/3 of a rectangle, then split each part into 4 smaller parts to show 8/12.
• Ask “What did the denominator get multiplied by?” and then “Do the same to the numerator.”
• Remind students that multiplying top and bottom by the same number is the same as multiplying by 1, so the value does not change.
• The “Easier” level uses multipliers 2 to 4. “Harder” uses multipliers up to 6 for bigger numbers.
• Watch for adding instead of multiplying (writing 2/3 = 4/5). Point students back to the picture.

How to print this worksheet

1. Check the settings above. They are already set for equivalent fractions.
2. Pick 10, 15, 20 or 30 problems, a title, and the name or date lines you want.
3. Choose US Letter or A4 to match the paper in your printer.
4. Press Download PDF for a file you can save and reuse, or Print to send it straight to your printer.
5. Keep the answer key page for yourself. The sheet number in the footer lets you make the exact same sheet again later.

What comes next

Once students can find equivalent fractions reliably, move on to comparing fractions with different denominators, then to simplifying fractions, and later to adding fractions with unlike denominators. The fractions category page has comparing fractions practice ready to go.