Fraction Subtraction

 

Subtracting with Like Denominators

Steps:

1.  Check to make sure that denominators are the same.

2. Subtract numerators and any whole numbers.

3.  Bring down the denominator and do not change it.

4. Reduce

Please look at notes from class for examples or use your book pg. 166-167.

Subtraction with unlike Denominators

Steps

1.  Find the least common denominator (the smallest number that both denominators can go into, so it has to be either the same number as the largest denominator or bigger).

2.  Whatever you do the denominator, you need to do the same to the numerator. (If you multiply the denominator by 2, multiply the numerator by 2.)

3.  Subtract the numerators and any whole numbers.

4.  Bring down the common denominator, do not change it.

5.  Reduce.

Please look at your notes from class for examples or the book pages. 168-169.

Subtraction with regrouping (borrowing).

Steps.

1.  Find least common denominator.

2.  Whatever you do the the denominator, you need to do the same thing to the numerator.

3.  Borrow from the whole number, or change the mixed number to improper fractions.

4.  Subtract numerators and any whole numbers.

5. Bring down common denominators and do not change them.

6. Reduce.

Please look to notes from class for examples or use book pages. 170-173.

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