Adding & Subtracting Fractions

What is the process of adding fractions?

Find a common denominator, Add the numerators, Simplify if necessary

What is the process of subtracting fractions?

Find a common denominator, Subtract the numerators, Simplify if necessary

What is a common denominator?

A common multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions.

How do you simplify fractions?

Divide the numerator and denominator by their greatest common divisor (GCD).

What is a proper fraction?

A fraction where the numerator is less than the denominator.

What is the numerator in a fraction?

The top number of the fraction.

What is the denominator in a fraction?

The bottom number of the fraction.

What is an improper fraction?

A fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.

How can you convert an improper fraction to a mixed number?

Divide the numerator by the denominator.

What is a mixed number?

A mixed number consists of a whole number and a fraction. For example, 2 1/2 is a mixed number.

How do you convert a mixed number to an improper fraction?

Multiply the whole number by the denominator, add the numerator, and place over the original denominator. For example, 2 1/2 becomes 5/2.

What should you do if the question has a mixed number?

Change it into an improper fraction first.

What should the answer be if the question is given as an improper fraction?

The answer should stay as an improper fraction.

What should the answer be if the question is given as a mixed number?

The answer should be a mixed number (where possible).