Working with Fractions

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Adding Fractions
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Follow the following steps to add fractions:
   
1.   Write the numbers vertically:

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2.   Do you have a Common Denominator?
(same bottom number = same size pieces)
 
NO:   Continue below...
 
 
YES:   Skip to the NEXT STEP.

 
Change to equivalent fractions with a common denominator:
 
  • Find a number divisible by BOTH denominators (such as the LCM: Least Common Multiple).
  • Multiply both the numerator AND denominator of one fraction by the SAME NUMBER to get an equivalent fraction with the common denominator.
  • Repeat with the other fraction.

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3.   Do the Addition:
 
  • Add the numerators   (to find the total number of pieces).  
    Keep the same denominator.

     
  • Add the whole numbers (if any).

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4.   Is the Fraction in Lowest Terms?
 
NO:   Continue below...
 
 
YES:   Skip to the NEXT STEP.

 
Improper fraction:   (Top number is greater than the bottom number.)
  • Divide the top BY the BOTTOM;
  • Write any remainder as the numerator of a fraction using the same denominator.

Reduce the fraction:
  • Divide both the numerator and the denominator by the same number.
  • Repeat until the only common factor is one.

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5.   Check your answer.

 



 
SAMPLE PROBLEM #1:
  2/7 + 4/7 =
 

 


SAMPLE PROBLEM #2:
 
  2/3 + 1/4 =

Step 1:

Step 2:

 

Solution:

 

 

 

SAMPLE PROBLEM #3:
 
  5/6 + 3/4 =

Step 1:

Step 2:

 

Solution:

 

 

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