Adding and Subtracting Fractions

What is an Improper Fraction?

Quick Fraction Review

What is a mixed number?

4

Quick Fraction Review

How do I change an improper fraction to a mixed number?

= 4

Divide the bottom number (denominator) into the top number (numerator)

Quick Fraction Review

How do I change a mixed number into an improper number?

6 =

Quick Fraction Review

Can you add fractions that have the same denominator?

+ =

+ =

Quick Fraction Review

Always keep the common denominator and subtract the numerators

- =

Quick Fraction Review

ALWAYS simplify your answers!!!

This means make the numbers as small as you can.

BUT – remember: WHAT YOU DO TO THE BOTTOM, YOU MUST DO

TO THE TOP!!!(And the opposite)

Simplifying Fractions

Practice

Look at the denominators in both fractions. Are they the same or are they different?

+

FINDING COMMON DENOMINATORS:

If they are the same: Add or subtract your numerators and then simplify your answer.

If they are different: Think of a number they have in COMMON.

+

FINDING COMMON DENOMINATORS:

4 and 5 have 20 in COMMON,

What can you multiply 4 by to get 20?What can you multiply 5 by to get 20?

Now, whatever you multiplied the denominator by, you MUST multiply the numerator by the SAME number.

FINDING COMMON DENOMINATORS:

Now that your denominators are the same, add or subtract your numerators and simplify your answers.

Using Common Denominators