How to Use Fraction Bars

Fraction bars are created by using popsicle sticks, tongue depressors, or strips of paper. The first number (1 through 9) is placed to the left, then multiples of that number (2x, 3x, 4x, etc.) continue towards the right. (Be sure that the same spacing is used between the numbers on each bar so that the numbers will line up properly when one bar is placed over another bar to create a fraction.)

Line one fraction bar up over another. The first fraction created will then have its equivalent fractions along the two bars:

1	2	3	4	5
3	6	9	12	15

Fraction bars can also be used to add and subtract fractions. If the addition problem were 1/3 plus 2/5, the student would line up the 1 and 3 bars and the 2 and 5 bars. Then the student looks along the bottom of each until he finds the lowest number which is the same in each set: 5/15 and 6/15 -- the common denominator. He then proceeds to add or subtract the numerators.