Award in Mathematics -
Number and Measure (Level 1)
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Topic 12: Operations with fractions


The two numbers in a fraction are called the numerator and the denominator.
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One simple way to remember which is which is to think of the 'N' for North on a compass or map. 'N' is at the top and the Numerator is at the top.
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Adding and subtracting fractions
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You may be asked to add together two fractions that have the same denominator. In this case you should leave the denominator unchanged, and just add or subtract the numerators.
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For example:
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You can also subtract one fraction from another in the same way, as long as they have the same denominator.
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For example:
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Multiplying fractions
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When multiplying a fraction, you should also leave the denominator unchanged, and just multiply the numerator.
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For example:
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This method will sometimes produce an answer that is greater than 1.
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For example:
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Fractions like 5/4, in which the numerator is greater than the denominator, are called 'improper fractions' or 'top heavy fractions'.
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5/4 can also be expressed as 1 1/4 (one and a quarter), which is a 'mixed fraction'.
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Dividing fractions
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When dividing a fraction, you should once again leave the denominator unchanged, and just divide the numerator. This is simple as long as the division leaves no remainder.
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For example:
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