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 in fractions?

Back

Unlike denominators are when the bottom numbers of two or more fractions are different, making it necessary to find a common denominator to add or subtract them.

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 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 process for subtracting fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

Similar to addition, find a common denominator, convert the fractions, then subtract the numerators.

Front

What is an example of adding fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

Example: 1/2 + 5/6. Common denominator is 6. Convert 1/2 to 3/6. So, 3/6 + 5/6 = 8/6 = 1 and 1/3.

Front

What is an example of subtracting fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

Example: 9/12 - 2/6. Common denominator is 12. Convert 2/6 to 4/12. So, 9/12 - 4/12 = 5/12.

Front

What is the result of 4/8 + 3/4?

Back

Convert 4/8 to 1/2. Common denominator is 4. So, 1/2 + 3/4 = 2/4 + 3/4 = 5/4 = 1 and 1/4.

Front

What is the result of 5/7 + 2/3?

Back

Common denominator is 21. Convert: 5/7 = 15/21 and 2/3 = 14/21. So, 15/21 + 14/21 = 29/21 = 1 and 8/21.