Let’s solve each fraction step by step.
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First problem: 3/9 = ?
We want to reduce this fraction to its lowest terms. That means we divide both the top (numerator) and bottom (denominator) by the same number — the biggest number that divides both evenly.
What’s the biggest number that goes into both 3 and 9?
→ 3 does! Because 3 ÷ 3 = 1, and 9 ÷ 3 = 3.
So, 3/9 becomes
1/3.
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Second problem: 32/14 = ?
Again, find the biggest number that divides both 32 and 14.
Let’s list factors:
- Factors of 32: 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32
- Factors of 14: 1, 2, 7, 14
The biggest common factor is
2.
Divide numerator and denominator by 2:
32 ÷ 2 = 16
14 ÷ 2 = 7
So, 32/14 becomes
16/7.
(Note: This is an improper fraction — it’s okay! We’re just reducing, not converting to mixed numbers unless asked.)
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Third problem: 7 21/28 = ?
This is a mixed number. We only reduce the fractional part — the 21/28. The whole number “7” stays as is.
Reduce 21/28.
Find the biggest number that divides both 21 and 28.
Factors of 21: 1, 3, 7, 21
Factors of 28: 1, 2, 4, 7, 14, 28
Biggest common factor:
7
21 ÷ 7 = 3
28 ÷ 7 = 4
So, 21/28 becomes 3/4.
Therefore, 7 21/28 becomes
7 3/4.
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Final Answer:
3/9 = 1/3
32/14 = 16/7
7 21/28 = 7 3/4
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of reducing fractions answers.
