Smart Starters · Ages 8 to 10
Fractions Colour by Number
Identify each fraction, then colour the picture using the matching colour. A Grade 3–4 fraction-recognition colour activity with answer keys.
The learning journey
Every activity is one step. Here is where this one fits.
- PlayLearn the idea in a game
- Practise(you are here)Lock it in on paper
- ReviewCome back and keep it sharp
- MasterTake on a harder challenge
- AchieveEarn a certificate
About Fractions Colour by Number
Fractions Colour by Number turns fraction recognition into a rewarding colouring activity. The page opens with a colour key linking each simple fraction to a colour, then fills a grid with equivalent fractions; the child works out which simple fraction each one matches and colours the cell accordingly, revealing a friendly picture as they go. Recognising that fractions like 2/4 and 3/6 are the same as 1/2 is a cornerstone of Grade 3 fraction understanding across the US, UK, Canada and Australia, and pairing it with colouring keeps the practice low-pressure and genuinely enjoyable. Every cell quietly rehearses the idea of equivalence while the picture keeps motivation high. The five levels vary the fractions so the activity stays fresh and reusable, and the colour key uses a clear, limited palette. Each page prints cleanly on a standard A4 sheet — the cells and key stay readable in black and white too — and every level downloads with its own answer key giving the simplest fraction and colour for every cell. There is no advertising, no sign-up and no data leaves the device. Use it for fraction recognition or alongside our fraction games for the same age range.
Common questions
- What fraction skill does this build?
- Recognising equivalent fractions, like seeing that 2/4 is the same as 1/2.
- Will it print in black and white?
- Yes. The cells and key stay readable without colour.
- Is an answer key included?
- Yes, every level gives the simplest fraction and colour for each cell.
A hand for grown-ups
- Before you start
- Something you can cut or fold helps enormously — paper, fruit, a sandwich. A half you can see beats a half you are told about.
- While they work
- Keep coming back to "equal parts". A shape split into unequal bits is the classic fractions trap.
- Afterwards
- Fold a piece of paper into halves, then quarters, together. Watching the pieces double is a lightbulb moment for many children.
- Watch out for
- Thinking a bigger bottom number means a bigger fraction (that 1/8 > 1/4). Cutting a real thing into 8 vs 4 pieces settles it fast.
- Away from the screen
- Cut food into equal parts at mealtimes. Fold paper. Talk about "half" and "quarter" of everyday things.
Where to go next
Chosen by the skills this activity practises.