Pre Algebra (Period 2 & 4)

Adding/ Subtracting Fractions (Negative) 5-3


1) Double check any subtractions just as you would for integer problems


2) As yourself "Who Wins?" Place the "winners sign" in the answer box you've created

3) Stack them...Place the winner on the top (no matter the sign)
 Take the difference

3) Restate to common denominators if needed


4) Borrow if the fraction above is smaller than the fraction below

5) Make sure your answers have consistent signs - In other words, if you have a negative fraction, make sure your whole number part is also negative





EXAMPLE :


5 2/3 - 10 1/4



METHOD 1: KEEP THEM AS MIXED NUMBERS:


First of all, you know the final answer will be NEGATIVE so make sure it is!

Put bigger absolute value on top:
 and take the difference
10 1/4
-
5 2/3


Find a common denominator:


10 3/12
-5 8/12


Borrow because the top fraction portion is smaller than the bottom
9 15/12
5 8/12

Use integer rules to add or subtract:
 - 4 7/12


Check