This lesson is a very light study of algebraic fractions.

1. Skill 25 Algebraic Fractions page 139 in the book
Operations with fractions from arithmetic are not generally tested
on the high school Equivalency test. However, there may be a
problem using fractions with algebra which may include
multiplying or dividing and adding or subtracting.
These are hard problems for most adult learners and most high school
algebra students too. I have included just a few with similar problems
from arithmetic on the next several slides.

2. Multiplying Fractions
Look at the arithmetic fractions on the right. Multiply across the top and then
across the bottom. Do the same thing with the algebraic fractions at the left. As you
multiply, divide out any common factors in the top and bottom.

3. Dividing Fractions
Remember that to divide fractions, write the first fraction, change to multiplying, and invert
the second fraction. (Multiply by the reciprocal.) Then, multiply as usual.

4. Adding and Subtracting Fractions
To add or subtract, we must have like denominators. Keep the “like” denominator
and add or subtract the numerators. Getting a common denominator is a complex
Process illustrated by problems 7 and 8 below.