Adding and Subtracting Fractions

Front

What is a fraction?

Back

A fraction represents a part of a whole. It consists of a numerator (top number) and a denominator (bottom number). For example, 1/2 means one part out of two equal parts.

Front

How do you add fractions with the same denominator?

Back

To add fractions with the same denominator, keep the denominator the same and add the numerators. For example, 1/4 + 2/4 = (1+2)/4 = 3/4.

Front

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

Back

The first step is to find a common denominator, which is a number that both denominators can divide into evenly.

Front

How do you find a common denominator for 1/3 and 1/4?

Back

The least common denominator (LCD) of 1/3 and 1/4 is 12. You can convert 1/3 to 4/12 and 1/4 to 3/12.

Front

What is the process to subtract fractions with the same denominator?

Back

To subtract fractions with the same denominator, keep the denominator the same and subtract the numerators. For example, 3/5 - 1/5 = (3-1)/5 = 2/5.

Front

What do you do after finding a common denominator when adding fractions?

Back

After finding a common denominator, convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with that denominator, then add the numerators.

Front

Can you simplify fractions?

Back

Yes, you can simplify fractions by dividing the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common factor (GCF). For example, 4/8 simplifies to 1/2.

Front

What is an improper fraction?

Back

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator, such as 5/4 or 3/3.

Front

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

Back

To convert an improper fraction to a mixed number, divide the numerator by the denominator. The quotient is the whole number, and the remainder is the new numerator.

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a proper fraction, such as 2 1/2.