Adding and Subtracting Fractions

Lesson 3

1. Convert to an improper fraction.

2. Convert to a mixed number.

3. Write in simplest form.

4. Write a fraction that is equivalent to .

534

4

25

18

4

7

3

Target: Add or subtract fractions with like and unlike denominators.

Least Common Multiple: The smallest multiple that is common to two or more numbers.

Least Common Denominator: The least common multiple of two denominators.

1. If denominators are not equal, rewrite the fractions as equivalent fractions with common denominators using the least common denominator.

2. Add or subtract the numerators.

3. Write the sum or difference over the common denominator.

4. Write the fraction in simplest form.

Find the value of .

The fractions already have common denominators.

Add numerators.

Write in simplest form.

10

7

10

1

10

8

10

71

10

7

10

1

5

4

10

8

On Monday, the Portland International Airport reported inch of rain. On Tuesday it rained inch. What was the total rainfall for these two days?

The LCM is 16. Write with a denominator of 16.

Add the fractions.

Write as a mixed fraction.

It rained inches in Portland on Monday and Tuesday.

16

17

16

116

16

11

16

6

1611

16

17

1611

8

3

16

11

8

3

Find the value of .

The LCM of 3 and 4 is 12.

Rewrite fractions.

Subtract.

4

1

3

2

12

5

12

3

12

8

1.

2.

3.

4.

10

1

5

4

8

3

2

1

4

3

3

2

5

1

20

19

Write each answer in simplest form.

What do you find to be the most difficult part about adding or subtracting fractions?