📚 Topic Summary
Subtracting fractions means finding the difference between two fractions. To do this, the fractions must have the same denominator (the bottom number). If they don't, you'll need to find a common denominator before you can subtract the numerators (the top numbers). Once you've subtracted the numerators, keep the same denominator. Simplify the fraction if possible!
For example, to subtract $\frac{3}{4}$ - $\frac{1}{4}$, since both fractions have the same denominator (4), you simply subtract the numerators: 3 - 1 = 2. So, $\frac{3}{4}$ - $\frac{1}{4}$ = $\frac{2}{4}$. Then, simplify $\frac{2}{4}$ to $\frac{1}{2}$.
🧮 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
- Fraction
- Numerator
- Denominator
- Common Denominator
- Simplify
- The bottom number of a fraction.
- A number that represents part of a whole.
- To reduce a fraction to its smallest equivalent form.
- The top number of a fraction.
- A shared denominator that two or more fractions have.
Answers:
- Fraction - A number that represents part of a whole.
- Numerator - The top number of a fraction.
- Denominator - The bottom number of a fraction.
- Common Denominator - A shared denominator that two or more fractions have.
- Simplify - To reduce a fraction to its smallest equivalent form.
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph with the correct words:
To subtract fractions, they must have the same __________. If they don't, find a __________ ___________. Then, subtract the __________, keeping the same ___________. Finally, __________ the fraction if you can.
Answers: denominator, common denominator, numerators, denominator, simplify
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Sarah ate $\frac{2}{5}$ of a pizza, and John ate $\frac{1}{5}$ of the same pizza. How much more pizza did Sarah eat than John? Explain your answer.