Add and Subtract 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 denominators (bottom numbers) of two or more fractions are different.

Front

How do you add fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

To add fractions with unlike denominators, first find a common denominator, convert the fractions, and then add the numerators.

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, allowing them to be added or subtracted.

Front

Example: Add 1/4 + 1/6. What is the first step?

Back

The first step is to find the least common denominator (LCD) of 4 and 6, which is 12.

Front

What is the least common denominator (LCD) of 4 and 6?

Back

The least common denominator (LCD) of 4 and 6 is 12.

Front

Convert 1/4 to a fraction with a denominator of 12.

Back

1/4 = 3/12 (multiply both the numerator and denominator by 3).

Front

Convert 1/6 to a fraction with a denominator of 12.

Back

1/6 = 2/12 (multiply both the numerator and denominator by 2).

Front

Now add 3/12 + 2/12. What is the result?

Back

3/12 + 2/12 = 5/12.

Front

What is the process to subtract fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

To subtract fractions with unlike denominators, find a common denominator, convert the fractions, and then subtract the numerators.