Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators
Practice subtracting fractions with different denominators, finding common denominators, and simplifying answers.
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Subtracting Fractions with Unlike Denominators
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Read each question carefully and solve the problems. Remember to find a common denominator before subtracting fractions. Simplify your answers to the lowest terms.
1. Subtract the following fractions. Show your work.
a) 3/4 - 1/2
b) 5/6 - 1/3
c) 7/8 - 1/4
Determine if the following statements are true or false.
1. To subtract fractions, you must always have a common denominator.
True
False
2. The difference of 1/2 and 1/3 is 1/6.
True
False
1. What is the least common denominator (LCD) of 2/3 and 1/5?
8
10
15
30
2. If you subtract 1/4 from 1/2, what is the result?
1/8
1/4
3/4
1/2
Complete the sentences with the correct terms.
1. When subtracting fractions with unlike denominators, the first step is to find a .
2. After finding a common denominator, you only subtract the .
3. Always your answer to its simplest form.
Solve the following word problems. Show your work.
1. Sarah had 7/10 of a pie. She ate 1/5 of the pie. How much pie is left?
2. John ran 5/6 of a mile. Mike ran 1/4 of a mile. How much farther did John run than Mike?
Use the fraction bars to help visualize the subtraction. Shade the bars to represent the problem and find the answer.
1. 3/4 - 1/2 = ?
Answer: