ADDING FRACTIONS How to Add Fractions Fractions consist of two numbers. The top number is called the numerator. The bottom number is called the denominator. numerator denominator To add two fractions with the same denominator: • Add the numerators • Place the sum over the common denominator. Example: Find the Sum of b • Add the numerators 2 and 4, which equals 6 • Place the 6 over the common denominator 7 • The result is 6/7 To add fractions with different denominators: • Find the Least Common Denominator (LCD) of the fractions • Rename the fractions to have the LCD • Add the numerators of the fractions • Simplify the Fraction Example: Find the Sum of 2/9 and 3/12 • Determine the Greatest Common Factor of 9 and 12 which is 3 • Either multiply the denominators and divide by the GCF (9*12=108, 108/3=36) - OR - Divide one of the denominators by the GCF and multiply the answer by the other denominator (9/3=3, 3*12=36) • Rename the fractions to use the Least Common Denominator (2/9=8/36, 3/12=9/36) • The result is 8/36 + 9/36 • Add the numerators and put the sum over the LCD = 17/36 • Simplify the fraction if possible. In this case it is not possible. © Copyright NewPath Learning. All Rights Reserved. Permission is granted for the purchaser to print copies for non-commercial educational purposes only. Visit us at www.NewPathLearning.com.
Try This! Add the following fractions: ¼ + 2/4 = _________ 11/20 + 4/20 = __________ ½ + ¼ = ________ 2/10 + 4/5 = _________ © Copyright NewPath Learning. All Rights Reserved. Permission is granted for the purchaser to print copies for non-commercial educational purposes only. Visit us at www.NewPathLearning.com.