Learn how to add and subtract fractions with step-by-step explanations and examples, perfect for 12-year-olds.
Adding and subtracting fractions might seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you'll find it's really not that hard! Let’s go through it step by step.
A fraction represents a part of a whole. It has two parts: the numerator (the top number) and the denominator (the bottom number). For example, in the fraction 3/4, 3 is the numerator and 4 is the denominator.
When the denominators are the same, you just add the numerators:
Example:
Add 1/4 + 2/4
Step 1: Keep the denominator the same (4).
Step 2: Add the numerators: 1 + 2 = 3.
The answer is 3/4.
When the denominators are different, you need to find a common denominator:
Example:
Add 1/3 + 1/6
Step 1: Find a common denominator. The smallest number that both denominators (3 and 6) can divide into is 6.
Step 2: Change the fractions:
1/3 = 2/6 (because 1 x 2 = 2 and 3 x 2 = 6)
1/6 stays the same.
Step 3: Now add:
2/6 + 1/6 = 3/6.
Step 4: Simplify if needed. Here, 3/6 simplifies to 1/2.
This is similar to adding:
Example:
Subtract 3/8 - 1/8
Step 1: Keep the denominator (8).
Step 2: Subtract the numerators: 3 - 1 = 2.
The answer is 2/8. This simplifies to 1/4.
Just like when adding fractions:
Example:
Subtract 2/5 - 1/10
Step 1: Find a common denominator. (10 is the common denominator for 5 and 10).
Step 2: Change the fractions:
2/5 = 4/10.
Step 3: Subtract:
4/10 - 1/10 = 3/10.
The answer is 3/10.
Try practicing with different sets of fractions, and pay attention to when you need to adjust the denominators. Soon, you’ll be able to add and subtract fractions with confidence!