Adding & Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators

Front

What is a fraction?

Back

A fraction represents a part of a whole and consists of a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number).

Front

What does it mean to have unlike denominators in fractions?

Back

Unlike denominators are denominators that are not the same. To add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators, you must first find a common denominator.

Front

How do you find a common denominator for two fractions?

Back

To find a common denominator, identify the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators.

Front

What is the first step in adding fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator for the fractions.

Front

How do you convert fractions to have a common denominator?

Back

Multiply the numerator and denominator of each fraction by the same number to create equivalent fractions with the common denominator.

Front

What is the process for adding fractions?

Back

1. Find a common denominator. 2. Convert the fractions to equivalent fractions with the common denominator. 3. Add the numerators and keep the common denominator.

Front

What is the process for subtracting fractions?

Back

1. Find a common denominator. 2. Convert the fractions to equivalent fractions with the common denominator. 3. Subtract the numerators and keep the common denominator.

Front

What is an improper fraction?

Back

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a proper fraction.

Front

How do you convert an improper fraction to a mixed number?

Back

Divide the numerator by the denominator. The quotient is the whole number, and the remainder over the original denominator is the proper fraction.