Adding and subtracting fractions
Lesson 7 of 11
Adding mixed numbers
Objective. Add and subtract mixed numbers reliably.
The key idea
Either add whole parts and fraction parts separately, or convert to improper fractions first. Converting is safer when subtracting.
Worked example
Work out 2 1/2 + 1 3/4.
- 1Wholes: 2 + 1 = 3.
- 2Fractions: 1/2 + 3/4 = 2/4 + 3/4 = 5/4 = 1 1/4.
- 33 + 1 1/4 = 4 1/4.
Answer: 4 1/4
Practice
Each question comes with a picture and a listen button. Try it first, then reveal the answer.
Common mistake. Forgetting to carry when the fraction parts add to more than one whole.
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