How to Solve Real-Life Puzzles: Word Problems on Adding and Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators
Word problems provide a practical context to mathematical concepts, making them more relatable and understandable. When it comes to adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators, word problems can illustrate everyday scenarios where these skills come into play.
In this post, we’ll delve into some word problems that revolve around adding and subtracting fractions with the same denominator, offering solutions and insights along the way.
Step-by-step Guide:
1. Understanding the Problem:
Begin by reading the word problem carefully. Identify the fractions involved and ensure they have the same denominator.
2. Visualizing the Scenario:
Imagine the situation described in the problem. This will help in understanding what’s being asked and how to approach the solution.
3. Performing the Operation:
Depending on whether the problem asks for addition or subtraction, combine or take away the numerators of the fractions while keeping the denominator the same.
4. Simplifying the Answer:
After performing the operation, always check if the resulting fraction can be simplified further.
Example 1:
Lucy baked a pie and ate \(\frac{1}{4}\) of it on Monday. On Tuesday, she ate another \(\frac{1}{4}\). How much of the pie has Lucy eaten in total?
Solution:
Lucy ate \(\frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{4} = \frac{2}{4}\) of the pie, which simplifies to \(\frac{1}{2}\). Lucy has eaten half of the pie in total.
The Absolute Best Book for 5th Grade Students
Example 2:
John has \(\frac{3}{5}\) of a chocolate bar. He gives \(\frac{2}{5}\) to his friend. How much of the chocolate bar does John have left?
Solution:
John has \(\frac{3}{5} – \frac{2}{5} = \frac{1}{5}\) of the chocolate bar left.
Practice Questions:
1. Emma read \(\frac{3}{8}\) of a book on Saturday and \(\frac{1}{8}\) on Sunday. How much of the book has she read in total?
2. Mike had \(\frac{5}{6}\) of a pizza. He ate \(\frac{2}{6}\) for dinner. How much pizza does he have left?
3. Sarah practiced piano for \(\frac{2}{7}\) hours on Monday and \(\frac{3}{7}\) hours on Tuesday. How many hours did she practice in total?
A Perfect Book for Grade 5 Math Word Problems!
Answers:
1. \(\frac{4}{8}\) or \(\frac{1}{2}\)
2. \(\frac{3}{6}\) or \(\frac{1}{2}\)
3. \(\frac{5}{7}\) hours
The Best Math Books for Elementary Students
Related to This Article
More math articles
- How to Be A Great SAT/ACT Math Tutor?
- HSPT Math Formulas
- How to Draw Geometric Shapes with given condition?
- 10 Most Common 3rd Grade FSA Math Questions
- How to Estimate Negative and Positive Square Roots
- The Ultimate GED Math Formula Cheat Sheet for 2024!
- How to Build Quadratics from Roots?
- 10 Most Common 6th Grade ACT Aspire Math Questions
- Using Strip Models to Solve Percentage Problems
- The Best Calculator for PSAT 8/9 Math Test
What people say about "How to Solve Real-Life Puzzles: Word Problems on Adding and Subtracting Fractions with Like Denominators - Effortless Math: We Help Students Learn to LOVE Mathematics"?
No one replied yet.