What Are Mixed Numbers?
Mixed numbers are numbers that have both whole numbers and
fractions!
Like having 2 whole pizzas and 3 slices of another pizza (where each pizza is cut into 8 slices). We'd
write that as \(2\frac{3}{8}\).
How to Add/Subtract Mixed Numbers with Different Denominators
1️⃣ Find a common denominator - Make the bottom numbers the same
2️⃣ Convert the fractions - Change both fractions to use the common denominator
3️⃣ Add/Subtract - Do the math with the whole numbers and fractions separately
4️⃣ Simplify - Make your answer as simple as possible
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Adding Mixed Numbers
Solve: \(1\frac{1}{4} + 2\frac{1}{3}\)
Show Solution Steps
- Find common denominator: 4 and 3 → 12
- Convert fractions: \(\frac{1}{4} = \frac{3}{12}\) and \(\frac{1}{3} = \frac{4}{12}\)
- Add whole numbers: 1 + 2 = 3
- Add fractions: \(\frac{3}{12} + \frac{4}{12} = \frac{7}{12}\)
- Combine: \(3\frac{7}{12}\)
Example 2: Subtracting Mixed Numbers
Solve: \(3\frac{3}{5} - 1\frac{1}{2}\)
Show Solution Steps
- Find common denominator: 5 and 2 → 10
- Convert fractions: \(\frac{3}{5} = \frac{6}{10}\) and \(\frac{1}{2} = \frac{5}{10}\)
- Subtract whole numbers: 3 - 1 = 2
- Subtract fractions: \(\frac{6}{10} - \frac{5}{10} = \frac{1}{10}\)
- Combine: \(2\frac{1}{10}\)
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use real-world examples like pizza slices or measuring cups to make the concept tangible.
- Practice with baking - halving or doubling recipes provides perfect practice with fractions.
- Make it a game - create fraction cards and have your child race to find common denominators.