Use Equivalent Fractions to Add and Subtract Fractions

In this topic, students will:

• estimate sums and differences of fractions by using the nearest half or whole number

• find common denominators for fractions with unlike denominators

• add fractions with unlike denominators using equivalent fractions with a common denominator

• subtract fractions with unlike denominators

• write equivalent fraction to add and subtract fractions with unlike denominators

• estimate sums and differences and mixed numbers

• add mixed numbers using models

• add mixed numbers using equivalent fractions and a common denominator

• use models to subtract mixed numbers

• subtract numbers using equivalent fractions and a common denominator

• add and subtract mixed numbers using equivalent fractions and a common denominator

Vocabulary:

Benchmark fraction - common fractions used for estimating, such as ¼, ⅓, ½, ⅔, and ¾ 

Equivalent fractions - fractions that name the same part of a whole region, length or set. 

Common denominator - a number that is the denominator of two or more fractions. 

Mixed number - a number that has a whole-number part and a fractional part.