Last reviewed: 10 November 2026
Updated November 2026. These Grade 7 fractions notes cover comparing fractions, adding and subtracting, multiplying and dividing, and number sequences made of fractions. To compare or add fractions, first change them to equivalent fractions with the same denominator. To divide, multiply by the reciprocal.
All examples are original practice for Kenyan junior school learners. For the other Grade 7 topics, see our Grade 7 mathematics revision guide.
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What the Grade 7 Curriculum Covers
Fractions is a sub-strand under Numbers in the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development’s Grade 7 Mathematics design. Learners compare fractions, carry out the four operations, identify reciprocals, and work with number sequences involving fractions. The design is listed on the KICD Grade Seven curriculum designs page. Fraction rules are also explained in OpenStax Prealgebra 2e.
Comparing Fractions
Find the lowest common multiple (LCM) of the denominators, change each fraction, then compare the numerators. Example. Arrange 2/3, 3/4 and 5/8 from smallest. LCM of 3, 4 and 8 is 24: 16/24, 18/24, 15/24. Order: 5/8, 2/3, 3/4.
Adding and Subtracting
Use a common denominator, then add or subtract the numerators. 1/4 + 2/3 = 3/12 + 8/12 = 11/12. For mixed numbers, add the whole numbers and the fractions separately: 2½ + 1⅓ = 3 + 3/6 + 2/6 = 3⅚.
When subtracting mixed numbers, you may need to borrow: 3¼ − 1¾ = 2 5/4 − 1 3/4 = 1 2/4 = 1½.
Multiplying
Multiply numerators together and denominators together, cancelling first where possible. 2/5 × 15 = 30/5 = 6. 3/4 × 2/9 = 6/36 = 1/6. Change mixed numbers to improper fractions first: 1½ × 2⅔ = 3/2 × 8/3 = 4.
Reciprocals and Dividing
The reciprocal of 3/7 is 7/3; the reciprocal of 5 is 1/5. To divide by a fraction, multiply by its reciprocal.
- 3/4 ÷ 6 = 3/4 × 1/6 = 1/8
- 8 ÷ 2/3 = 8 × 3/2 = 12
- 2½ ÷ 1¼ = 5/2 × 4/5 = 2
Number Sequences With Fractions
Find the rule by looking at the difference or the multiplier between terms.
- 1/4, 1/2, 3/4, 1, … adds 1/4 each time; the next term is 1¼.
- 1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, … halves each time; the next term is 1/16.
Original Practice Questions With Worked Answers
- Which is greater, 4/5 or 7/9?
Answer: 36/45 and 35/45, so 4/5 is greater. - Work out 5/6 − 1/4.
Answer: 10/12 − 3/12 = 7/12. - Work out 2⅓ × 3/14.
Answer: 7/3 × 3/14 = 1/2. - How many 3/4-litre cups can be filled from 9 litres of juice?
Answer: 9 ÷ 3/4 = 9 × 4/3 = 12 cups. - Find the next two terms: 2/3, 1, 4/3, 5/3, …
Answer: the rule adds 1/3; next terms 2 and 7/3 (2⅓).
Grade 8 continues with combined operations in our Grade 8 fractions notes. For daily practice, a Day Pass (KSh 20) or Monthly Pass (KSh 500) opens the full question bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I compare two fractions?
Change them to equivalent fractions with the same denominator, then compare the numerators.
How do I divide by a fraction?
Multiply by its reciprocal. For example, 8 ÷ 2/3 = 8 × 3/2 = 12.
Do I add the denominators when adding fractions?
No. Make the denominators the same, then add only the numerators.
How do I find the rule in a fraction sequence?
Check whether the same amount is added each time or whether each term is multiplied by the same number.
Ten-minute check: try the free Grade 7 CBC Challenge. It has 10 questions, each marked on the spot with the working, and it shows which topics to practise next.