Simplifying Complex Fractions: Two Effective Methods

The video tutorial explains how to simplify complex fractions using two methods. The first method involves combining the fractions in the numerator and denominator, then multiplying by the reciprocal of the denominator. The second method clears the denominators by multiplying both the numerator and denominator by the common denominator of all fractions involved. Both methods ultimately simplify the complex fraction to a simpler form. The tutorial provides step-by-step instructions and examples for each method, ensuring a clear understanding of the process.

What is a complex fraction?

• A fraction with a numerator and denominator that are both fractions

• A fraction with a numerator that is a whole number

• A fraction with a numerator and denominator that are both whole numbers

• A fraction with a denominator that is a whole number

Tags

CCSS.3.NF.A.1

CCSS.3.NF.A.2B

What is the first step in Method 1 for simplifying complex fractions?

• Clearing the denominators

• Multiplying by the reciprocal

• Combining the numerator into one fraction

• Combining the denominator into one fraction

In Method 1, what do you do after combining the fractions in the numerator and denominator?

• Divide the fractions

• Subtract the fractions

• Add the fractions together

• Multiply by the reciprocal of the denominator

Tags

CCSS.6.NS.A.1

In Method 1, what is the result after factoring and simplifying the expression?

• 3 times (X + 4) all over 2

• 3 times (X - 4) all over 2

• 3 times (X + 2) all over 2

• 3 times (X - 2) all over 2

Tags

CCSS.HSA.APR.D.6

What is the purpose of factoring in Method 1?

• To make the fraction more complex

• To subtract the fractions

• To simplify the fraction further

• To add the fractions together

Tags

CCSS.5.NF.A.1

CCSS.5.NF.A.2

What is the common denominator used in Method 2?

• The reciprocal of all denominators

• The difference of all denominators

• The sum of all denominators

• The product of all denominators

What happens when you multiply a fraction by its common denominator in Method 2?

• The fraction remains unchanged

• The numerators cancel out

• The denominators cancel out

• The fraction becomes more complex

Tags

CCSS.4.NF.B.4A

CCSS.4.NF.B.4B

In Method 2, what do you do after multiplying by the common denominator?

• Divide the fractions

• Simplify the resulting expression

• Subtract the fractions

• Add the fractions together

Tags

CCSS.5.NF.A.1

CCSS.5.NF.A.2

What is the final result of Method 2 after simplification?

• 3 times (X - 4) all over 2

• 3 times (X + 2) all over 2

• 3 times (X - 2) all over 2

• 3 times (X + 4) all over 2

Tags

CCSS.7.EE.A.1

Which method involves multiplying by the reciprocal of the denominator?

• Method 1

• Method 2

• Neither method

• Both methods

Tags

CCSS.7.EE.B.3