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 2/5 + 1 3/5
Step 1: Add whole numbers: 3 + 1 = 4
Step 2: Add fractions: 2/5 + 3/5 = 5/5
Step 3: 5/5 = 1 whole, so we add it to our whole number: 4 + 1 = 5
Answer: 5
Example 2: Subtracting Mixed Numbers
Solve: 4 7/8 - 2 3/8
Step 1: Subtract whole numbers: 4 - 2 = 2
Step 2: Subtract fractions: 7/8 - 3/8 = 4/8
Step 3: Simplify 4/8 to 1/2
Answer: 2 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...").