1. Working With Common Denominators By: Larry Wilson

2. What is a Denominator? The bottom part of the fraction represents the total parts of the whole 6 6

3. The Numerator The top part of the Fraction represents the part that you have 6 6

4. The Numerator 5 6

5. What is a common denominator? Common denominators are the possible ways that fractions can be used to add or subtract unlike numbers These fractions can only be Added or Subtracted by finding a common language (Common Denominator) or Common multiple

6. 1 A Common Denominator for 3 & 6 For Example 3 2 6 + 1 Find the lowest number that both will divide into It is 6 Both 3 & 6 Will divide Into 6

7. Some Suggestions for Finding Common Denominators 1 Find the lowest number that both will divide into 2If both numbers are even try 2 or 4 3 If both are odd try 3 or 6 4 If both are even or both are odd multiply them together

8. 1 3 2 6 + Now convert the old denominators to the New--6 6 6 2 3 into 6 X 1 =2 So the Equal Fraction Will be? 2 6

9. Now Add Numerators Keep the New Denominator 1 3 2 6 + 6 6 2 2 4 6 Yes!

10. Now-Look in the Text Page 88 Example #1 7 12 2 3 + Again 12 is the smallest Number that the denominators Will Divide into

11. So 7 12 2 3 + 7 3 into 12 X 2 equals-? 8 So 8 is your numerator

12. Now Solve 7 12 2 3 + 7 8 = 15 12 Your Answer

13. Now Try One Look On Page 90 Solve Problem Picture #1