Subtract Unlike Denominators

Convert to a common denominator first, then cross out the matching parts — the shading left over is the difference

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About This Practice

Subtracting unlike fractions also starts with converting. Once both bars show equal parts, cross out the subtrahend’s parts from the first bar — whatever shading remains is the difference. Start with the “Basic” level (related denominators), then try “General” for any unlike denominators!

Tap “Convert” for equal parts, “Cross out” to remove the subtrahend from the first bar, then check the shading left and simplify the difference.

MediumEstimated Time: 15minunlike denominatorscommon denominatorsubtracting 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 Cross out” and see the subtrahend’s parts removed one by one.
  4. Self-check: tap the number of shaded parts left over.
  5. Tap “③ Simplify” to reduce the difference to lowest terms.

Learning Objectives

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