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Adding and Subtracting Fractions

When we add or subtract fractions, we must make sure the denominator of both fractions is the same.

Same denominator

Same denominator

  • If the denominator of both fractions is already the same we simply add or subtract the numerators.
Same denominator 2

Same denominator 2

  • If the denominator of both fractions is already the same we simply add or subtract the numerators.
Different denominators

Different denominators

  • If the denominators are not the same we need to make them the same using an equivalent fraction.
Different denominators 2

Different denominators 2

  • When finding an equivalent fraction we must multiply or divide both the top and bottom row by the same amount.
Different denominators 3

Different denominators 3

  • Once both the fractions have the same denominator we can add or subtract the numerators.
What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$?

What is 3415\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}?

  • We cannot do the subtraction straight away because the fractions do not have the same denominator.
What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$?

What is 3415\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}?

  • Using equivalent fractions, convert the fraction so that they have the same denominator.
What is $$\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}$$?

What is 3415\frac{3}{4} - \frac{1}{5}?

  • Once both the fractions have the same denominator we can add or subtract the numerators.
Jump to other topics
1

Number

1.1

Place Value

1.2

Factors & Multiples

1.3

Operations

1.4

Fractions, Decimals & Percentages

1.5

Growth & Decay

1.6

Measurements & Units

1.7

Accuracy

2

Algebra

2.1

Introduction to Algebra

2.2

Graphs

2.3

Solving Equations

2.4

Sequences

3

Ratio, Proportion & Rates of Change

4

Geometry & Measures

4.1

Introduction to Geometry

4.2

Ruler & Compass Constructions

4.3

Perimeter & Area

4.4

Triangles, Quadrilaterals & Circles

4.5

Transformations

4.6

Triangle Formulae

4.7

3D Shapes

4.8

Vectors

5

Probability

6

Statistics

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