Add Unlike Denominators

Convert to a common denominator first, then add the numerators: 1/2 + 1/3 = 3/6 + 2/6 = 5/6

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About This Practice

Adding fractions with different denominators always starts with converting: re-cut both bars into the same number of parts. Then merge: join the shaded amounts onto one bar and count. Finally, check whether the answer can be simplified. Follow steps ① ② ③ and unlike-fraction addition becomes easy!

Tap “Convert” to re-cut both bars into equal parts, “Merge” to join the shaded amounts, then self-check the total and simplify the answer.

MediumEstimated Time: 15minunlike denominatorscommon denominatoradding fractionsconvertsimplify

How to Play

  1. Read the problem: do the two fractions share a denominator?
  2. Tap “① Convert” and watch both bars re-cut into equal parts.
  3. Tap “② Merge” and see the second shading join the result bar.
  4. Self-check: tap the correct total number of shaded parts.
  5. Tap “③ Simplify” to reduce the answer to lowest terms.

Learning Objectives

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