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?

Back

Unlike denominators are when the bottom numbers of two or more fractions are different.

Front

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

Back

Find a common denominator.

Front

What is a common denominator?

Back

A common denominator is a number that is a multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions.

Front

How do you find the least common denominator (LCD)?

Back

The least common denominator is the smallest multiple that two or more denominators share.

Front

What is the least common denominator of 2 and 3?

Back

The least common denominator of 2 and 3 is 6.

Front

How do you convert fractions to have a common denominator?

Back

You multiply the numerator and denominator of each fraction by the necessary factors to reach the common denominator.

Front

What is the process of adding fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

1. Find a common denominator. 2. Convert each fraction. 3. Add the numerators. 4. Simplify if possible.

Front

What is the process of subtracting fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

1. Find a common denominator. 2. Convert each fraction. 3. Subtract the numerators. 4. Simplify if possible.

Front

What does it mean to simplify a fraction?

Back

To simplify a fraction means to reduce it to its lowest terms by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor.