What Are Mixed Numbers?
A mixed number combines a whole number with a fraction, like 2½ or 3¾.
When we add or subtract mixed numbers, we need to pay attention to both the whole numbers and the fractions. Sometimes we need to borrow or regroup, just like with regular subtraction!
How to Add and Subtract Mixed Numbers
1️⃣ Add/subtract the whole numbers separately from the fractions
2️⃣ Find a common denominator if the fractions have different denominators
3️⃣ Add/subtract the fractions carefully
4️⃣ Simplify your answer by converting improper fractions to mixed numbers
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Adding Mixed Numbers
Solve: 2½ + 1¾ = ?
Now you try: 3⅔ + 2¼ = /
Example 2: Subtracting Mixed Numbers
Solve: 3⅓ - 1¾ = ?
Now you try: 4½ - 2⅔ = /
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use cooking measurements to practice in real life - recipes often use mixed numbers like "1½ cups"
- Visualize with pizza slices - cut a paper pizza to show how fractions combine or separate
- Encourage estimation first - have your child predict whether the answer will be more or less than certain values