Adding Unlike Fractions
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Objective
I can add unlike fractions by finding a common denominator.
Part 1 of 3
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
To add fractions with different denominators, called unlike fractions, you must first convert them into equivalent fractions that share a common denominator.
- 2
The most efficient common denominator is the Least Common Denominator (LCD), which is the Least Common Multiple (LCM) of the original denominators.
- 3
For fractions like 1/3 and 1/4, the LCD is 12, which allows them to be converted to 4/12 and 3/12 before adding.
Part 2 of 3
Practice
7 questions
What are unlike fractions, and why is it not possible to add them directly without any changes?
Which of these is the Least Common Denominator (LCD) for the fractions 1/6 and 1/8?
Part 3 of 3
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Add the fractions ⅕ + ⅔. Show all steps, including how you found the common denominator and converted each fraction.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format
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Student Handout
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