Fractions

In this lesson I will show you how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions. Then I will show you how to simplify your answers.

Addition/Subtraction

These are done almost the same way. First, you find a common denominator (you need the same number on the bottom of both fractions). Then, you add or subtract across the top of the fractions and keep the bottom the same.

The hardest part of this is the common denominator. If you are good with numbers, you are trying to find the smallest number that both denominators can multiply to. If you are not good with numbers (don't know the times tables or need to use a calculator often), simply multiply the two bottom numbers. REMEMBER: whatever you do to the bottom you must also do to the top, and whatever you do to the top you must also do to the bottom.

I'll provide a few examples.

Order of Operations

I'm starting off with the order of operations because I feel that this is the beginning of math. Yes, there are the actual operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and exponents. Those are what I consider pre-math.

The purpose of the order of operations is to simplify an expression (hint, if you ever come across a question on a homework or test that says "simplify" or "simplify the expression," this is what it is talking about). In other words, we want to make something ugly into something pretty.

In order to do that, we use the order of operations, which is:

Parentheses

Exponents

Multiplication/Division

Addition/Subtraction