Understanding Unlike Denominators
Fractions can be tricky when their denominators are different!
But don't worry - we can use visual models to help us see how to add them together. Think of
denominators as different sized pieces of pizza - we need to make them the same size before we can add
them properly!
How to Add Fractions with Unlike Denominators
1️⃣ Find a common denominator - a size that both denominators can divide into
2️⃣ Convert both fractions to have this common denominator
3️⃣ Add the numerators while keeping the denominator the same
Let's Try Some Examples!
Example 1: Adding ½ + ¼
We convert ½ to 2/4 so both fractions have the same denominator. Then we add 2/4 + 1/4 = 3/4!
Example 2: Adding ⅓ + ⅙
We convert ⅓ to 2/6 so both fractions have the same denominator. Then we add 2/6 + 1/6 = 3/6, which simplifies to ½!
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use real-world objects like pizza slices, chocolate bars, or pie pieces to demonstrate how fractions with different denominators can be compared and added.
- Start with simple denominators that are factors of each other (like 2 and 4, or 3 and 6) before moving to more complex pairs.
- Encourage drawing - have your child sketch fraction models to visualize the problem before solving it numerically.