Illustration

• While teaching fractions to kids, it is useful to illustrate the problems for them. Draw a circle and divide the circle into parts. Color the different parts in different shades. You could also bring the exercise alive by folding a paper into equal parts. These visual aids help the child in understanding how to subtract fractions better.
  
  

Placement of Numerators and Denominators

• The denominator should be constant. Both fractions should have the same denominator. If the two fractions are 3/4 and 1/4, draw a line and write the digit 4 below it. This will help complete the sum easily. On the top of the common denominator, write down the two numerators, subtracting one from the other.
  
  

Tabulations of Results

• After the denominator and numerators are placed, subtract the numerators, keeping the denominator intact. Then, simplify the fraction. Explain to the child that a fraction should be simplified as far as possible. If the child hasn't learned division yet, explain and do this step for him. Every step must be written on a new line, neatly and clearly. The final result must be underlined.
  
  

Tricks to Remember

• Teaching kids to remember that "down" and "denominator" both start with the letter "D" helps in the proper placement of the denominator and numerator and subsequently in achieving the correct answer to the problem.
  
  

Revision

• Revision is an integral part of subtracting fractions. The child must revise the sum and see if the subtraction has been accurate, the placement of the denominator is correct and the simplification is done properly. Even if the steps are followed correctly, the answer can be incorrect due to carelessness. Revision also helps in sharpening of skills, which will lead to the child doing better in fractions of all kinds and also in other math areas.