➕ Topic Summary
Adding fractions in word problems means figuring out what part of a whole you have when you combine different fractional amounts. It's like figuring out how much pizza you ate if you had a slice that was $\frac{1}{4}$ of the pizza and another slice that was $\frac{1}{8}$ of the pizza. To solve these problems, you need to make sure the fractions have the same denominator (the bottom number) before you add the numerators (the top numbers). If the denominators are different, you need to find a common denominator.
Once you've added the fractions, remember to simplify your answer if possible. Simplifying means reducing the fraction to its lowest terms. For example, $\frac{2}{4}$ can be simplified to $\frac{1}{2}$. With practice, you'll become a fraction addition pro!
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Numerator |
A. The number below the fraction bar, representing the total number of equal parts. |
| 2. Denominator |
B. Fractions that represent the same value, even though they have different numerators and denominators. |
| 3. Equivalent Fractions |
C. The number above the fraction bar, representing the number of parts you have. |
| 4. Common Denominator |
D. The process of reducing a fraction to its simplest form. |
| 5. Simplify |
E. A denominator that is the same for two or more fractions. |
✏️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph with the correct terms:
When adding fractions, it's important to have a __________. This means the __________ of both fractions must be the same. If they aren't, you need to find equivalent fractions. After adding the __________, you might need to __________ your answer to its simplest form. The bottom number of a fraction is called the __________.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain, in your own words, why it's necessary to have a common denominator when adding fractions. Provide an example to illustrate your explanation.