A Complete Guide to Adding Fractions for 12-Year-Olds

Adding Fractions: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding fractions can seem tricky at first, but once you understand the process, it becomes much easier! Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Understand What a Fraction Is

A fraction consists of two parts: the numerator (the top number), which tells how many parts you have, and the denominator (the bottom number), which shows how many equal parts make up a whole.

Step 2: Check the Denominators

When adding fractions, it’s important to look at the denominators. If they are the same, you can simply add the numerators!

Example 1: Same Denominators

For example, if you have: 1/4 + 2/4, both fractions have the same denominator (4). So, you add the numerators:
1 + 2 = 3
Therefore, 1/4 + 2/4 = 3/4.

Step 3: Different Denominators

If the fractions have different denominators, you need to make them the same. This is done by finding a common denominator. The easiest way to do this is to multiply the two denominators together.

Example 2: Different Denominators

Let’s say you want to add 1/3 + 1/6.
The denominators are 3 and 6. The common denominator for these fractions is 6.

Now, you need to convert the fractions:

• For 1/3: Multiply the numerator and the denominator by 2 to get 2/6.
• Now you can add them: 2/6 + 1/6 = 3/6.

Lastly, simplify if necessary: 3/6 can be simplified to 1/2.

Step 4: Practice!

The best way to get the hang of adding fractions is to practice. Try solving these added fractions yourself:
1. 1/5 + 1/10
2. 2/8 + 1/4
3. 3/12 + 1/6

Remember, practice makes perfect! Happy calculating!