Adding & 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 denominators 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 first step in adding or subtracting fractions with unlike denominators?

Back

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

Front

What is the formula for adding fractions?

Back

To add fractions, convert them to have a common denominator, then add the numerators and keep the common denominator.

Front

What is the formula for subtracting fractions?

Back

To subtract fractions, convert them to have a common denominator, then subtract the numerators and keep the common denominator.

Front

Example: 1/4 + 1/2 = ?

Back

1/4 + 1/2 = 3/4 (common denominator is 4).

Front

Example: 3/5 - 1/10 = ?

Back

3/5 - 1/10 = 1/2 (common denominator is 10).

Front

What is an improper fraction?

Back

An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.

Front

What is a mixed number?

Back

A mixed number is a whole number combined with a proper fraction.