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# Step 9

Use efficient methods to add, subtract, multiply and divide fractions

### Examples of what pupils should know and be able to do

Add and subtract more complex fractions, e.g. $\frac{11}{18}+\frac{7}{24}$, including mixed numbers.

Solve problems involving fractions, e.g. In a survey of 24 pupils $\frac{1}{3}$ liked football best, $\frac{1}{4}$ liked basketball, $\frac{3}{8}$ liked athletics and the rest liked swimming. How many liked swimming?

### Probing questions

• Give pupils some examples of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of fractions with common mistakes in them. e.g.$\frac{2}{8}+\frac{3}{6}=\frac{5}{14}$. Ask them to talk you through the mistakes and how they would correct them.
• The answer is:$\frac{3}{8}$. What is the question?