To add or subtract fractions with unlike denominators, there are 5 steps: 1) Write the problem vertically 2) Find a common denominator that both denominators divide into 3) Add or subtract the numerators 4) Keep the original denominators 5) Simplify the resulting fraction if possible Examples of adding, subtracting, and finding a common denominator are provided.

1. To Add or Subtract Fractions With Unlike Denominators:
1) Write problem vertically.
2) Find a common denominator.
3) Add the numerators.
4) Keep the same denominators.
5) Simplify, if needed.
Ex.: 1/6 + 1/12 = 21/24 – 1/2 =
3/4 - 11/12 = (Same process but with negative answer.)
Ex.: 1/5 + 2/3 = (Identify largest denominator. Will the other denominator go
into it? No. Multiply 5 x 2. Will 3 go into 10? No. Multiply 5 x3. Will 3 go
into 15. Yes. That is your common denominator.)
5/6 + 3/4 =
4/5 + 6/7 =
3/4 - 11/12 =
**SEE ME WHEN YOU RETURN TO SCHOOL FOR WORKSHEET.