Adding and 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

How do you find a common denominator?

Back

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

Front

What is the least common multiple (LCM)?

Back

The least common multiple is the smallest number that is a multiple of two or more numbers.

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 add fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the common denominator, then add the numerators and keep the common denominator.

Front

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

Back

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

Front

How do you subtract fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

Convert each fraction to an equivalent fraction with the common denominator, then subtract the numerators and keep the common denominator.

Front

What is an example of finding a common denominator for 1/4 and 1/6?

Back

The common denominator for 1/4 and 1/6 is 12.

Front

What is 1/2 + 1/3?

Back

1/2 + 1/3 = 5/6.