Fractions of Amounts: Games, Tricks & Worksheet
Finding a fraction of an amount means sharing it into equal parts and taking some of them. To find 3/4 of 20, divide 20 into 4 equal groups of 5, then take 3 groups: 15.
🍕 Play the fractions of amounts game 🖨️ Printable worksheet
Tricks that make it easier
- Divide by the bottom number, multiply by the top: 3/4 of 20 = 20 ÷ 4 × 3 = 15.
- For unit fractions (1/2, 1/3, 1/4), just divide: 1/5 of 30 = 6.
- Use times tables backwards: to find 1/6 of 42, think 6 × ? = 42.
Try these
- 1/4 of 24 =
Answer
6 - 3/4 of 28 =
Answer
21 - 2/3 of 12 =
Answer
8 - 4/5 of 40 =
Answer
32 - 2/3 of 30 =
Answer
20 - 5/8 of 56 =
Answer
35
Common mistakes
- Dividing by the top number instead of the bottom.
- Forgetting the second step (multiplying by the numerator).
- Not checking the answer is smaller than the whole amount.
A five-day practice plan
| Day | What to do (10 minutes) |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Play Fraction Pizza on this skill for 5–10 minutes. Read the explanation after every mistake. |
| Day 2 | Learn one trick from this page and use it out loud while you play. |
| Day 3 | Print the worksheet and try it without help. Mark it with the answer key together. |
| Day 4 | Play again and try to beat your personal best score or get three stars. |
| Day 5 | Mix it up: try the ⏱️ Timed test, or ask your child to explain the skill to you in their own words. |
Suits Year 4 and Year 5 and Year 6.
Frequently asked questions
How do you find a fraction of an amount?
Divide the amount by the denominator, then multiply by the numerator.
What is 3/4 of 20?
20 ÷ 4 = 5, and 5 × 3 = 15, so 3/4 of 20 is 15.
Why do times tables help with fractions?
Finding a fraction of an amount is mostly division, which uses the same facts as times tables.