What Are Mixed Numbers?
A mixed number combines a whole number with a fraction
Like having 2 whole pizzas and 3 slices of another pizza (where each pizza is cut into 8 slices). We'd
write this as 2 3/8. When adding or subtracting mixed numbers with the same denominators, we can work
with the whole numbers and fractions separately!
How to Add/Subtract Mixed Numbers
1️⃣ Add/subtract the whole numbers
2️⃣ Add/subtract the fractions (keep the denominator!)
3️⃣ Simplify if needed (convert improper fractions to mixed numbers)
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Adding Mixed Numbers
Solve: \(3\frac{2}{5} + 1\frac{3}{5}\)
- Step 1: Add whole numbers: \(3 + 1 = 4\)
- Step 2: Add fractions: \(\frac{2}{5} + \frac{3}{5} = \frac{5}{5}\)
- Step 3: \(\frac{5}{5} = 1\) whole, so \(4 + 1 = 5\)
Answer: 5
Example 2: Subtracting Mixed Numbers
Solve: \(4\frac{7}{8} - 2\frac{3}{8}\)
Step 1: Subtract whole numbers: 4 - 2 = 2
Step 2: Subtract fractions: \(\frac{7}{8} - \frac{3}{8} = \frac{4}{8}\)
Step 3: Simplify \(\frac{4}{8} to \frac{1}{2}\)
Answer: \(2\frac{1}{2}\)
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen Math: Use measuring cups to practice - "If we have 1¾ cups of flour and add 2¼ cups, how much do we have?"
- Pizza Party: Draw pizzas or pies divided into slices to visualize mixed numbers and operations.
- Real-world Problems: Create word problems using distances ("We walked 1⅖ miles, then 3⅕ miles...") or time ("I read for 2¾ hours yesterday and 1¼ hours today...").