Simplifying Ratios — Free KS3 Worksheet
A free, printable KS3 worksheet on simplifying ratios without a calculator, with a full worked answer key. 16 questions graded easy to hard for Years 7, 8 and 9, including three-part ratios, different units and word problems.
Simplifying a ratio works exactly like simplifying a fraction. Divide every part by the same number until you cannot go further. The ratio 12 to 18 becomes 2 to 3, and the relationship it describes has not changed at all. Twelve blue counters for every eighteen red is the same mix as two for every three.
What is on the sheet
Two part ratios first, dividing by an obvious common factor. Then ratios needing the highest common factor to finish in one step rather than three. Then three part ratios, where every part has to be divided by the same number and it is easy to leave one behind. Later questions use larger numbers, where the highest common factor is not obvious and repeated halving runs out of road. Word problems close it, in grams, millilitres and headcounts.
Marking it
The simplifying ratios lesson runs a fraction and a ratio through the same steps side by side, which helps anyone who has already met simplifying once.
Keep going
More ratio & proportion practice
Direct Proportion — Free KS3 Worksheet
A free, printable KS3 worksheet on direct proportion and the unitary method, with a full worked answer key. 16 questions graded easy to hard for Years 7, 8 and 9, from finding the value of one up to comparing unit prices to find the better buy.
Sharing in a Ratio — Free KS3 Worksheet
A free, printable KS3 worksheet on sharing an amount in a ratio without a calculator, with a full worked answer key. 16 questions graded easy to hard for Years 7, 8 and 9, including three-part ratios and word problems.
Want all 3 ratio & proportion worksheets at once?
One PDF, 48 questions, every answer key included, in teaching order. Every sheet in it is free on its own page too. The pack just saves you collecting them one at a time.