Section: Mathematical Reasoning

75) John was building a new fence, and he wants it to stand 8 1/2 feet above ground level. To make sure it is secure he must place it 2 3/4 feet into the ground. How long of a post should John buy?

1. 10 1/2 feet
2. 10 3/4 feet
3. 11 feet
4. 11 1/4 feet
5. 11 1/2 feet

To do this, you may add the 8 + 2 to get 10 feet and then add the fractions.

To add the fractions, you must covert them to a common denominator which would be 4 in this case. Therefore,

2/4 + 3/4 = 5/4 = 1 1/4

Then add the 1 1/4 to the 10 and you have 11 1/4.