Mathematics Grade 7 15 min

Add and subtract mixed numbers: word problems

Add and subtract mixed numbers: word problems

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1

Introduction & Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives Identify keywords in word problems to determine if addition or subtraction of mixed numbers is required. Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions and vice versa to facilitate calculations. Find a common denominator for fractions with different denominators. Accurately add and subtract mixed numbers, including regrouping when necessary. Solve multi-step word problems involving addition and subtraction of mixed numbers. Interpret and express the solution in the context of the word problem, including appropriate units. Ever wonder how much pizza is left after a party if you started with several whole pizzas and some slices were eaten? 🍕 Or how much fabric you need for a project if you combine different lengths? 🤔 In this lesson, you'll learn how t...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary

TermDefinitionExample Mixed NumberA number consisting of a whole number and a proper fraction.$3\frac{1}{2}$ (three and one-half) Improper FractionA fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.$\frac{7}{2}$ (seven-halves), which is equivalent to $3\frac{1}{2}$ Common DenominatorA common multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions, necessary for adding or subtracting them.For $\frac{1}{2}$ and $\frac{1}{3}$, the common denominator is 6, so they become $\frac{3}{6}$ and $\frac{2}{6}$. Regrouping (Borrowing)The process of converting one whole unit into an equivalent fraction to facilitate subtraction of mixed numbers when the first fraction is smaller than the second.To subtract $1\frac{3}{4}$ from $3\frac{1}{4}$, we regroup $3\frac{1}{4}$ as $2\frac{5}...
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Core Formulas

Converting Mixed Number to Improper Fraction $A\frac{B}{C} = \frac{(A \times C) + B}{C}$ Multiply the whole number by the denominator, add the numerator, and place the result over the original denominator. This is useful for simplifying calculations, especially when regrouping is complex. Converting Improper Fraction to Mixed Number $\frac{N}{D} = Q\frac{R}{D}$ where $Q$ is the quotient and $R$ is the remainder when $N$ is divided by $D$. Divide the numerator by the denominator. The quotient becomes the whole number, the remainder becomes the new numerator, and the denominator stays the same. Use this to express final answers clearly in word problems. Adding Mixed Numbers $A\frac{B}{C} + D\frac{E}{F}$ 1. Find a common denominator for the fractional parts. 2. Add the...

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Sample Practice Questions

Challenging
A triangular garden has a perimeter of $17 rac{1}{2}$ feet. The first side measures $5 rac{1}{4}$ feet and the second side measures $6 rac{2}{3}$ feet. What is the length of the third side?
A.5 rac{7}{12} feet
B.11 rac{11}{12} feet
C.6 rac{1}{12} feet
D.5 rac{5}{12} feet
Easy
A word problem asks you to find the 'total' length of two pieces of rope measuring $2 rac{1}{3}$ feet and $4 rac{1}{3}$ feet. Based on the keyword 'total', which operation should you use?
A.Addition
B.Subtraction
C.Multiplication
D.Division
Easy
To solve the problem $4 rac{2}{3} - 1 rac{1}{4}$, what is the least common denominator (LCD) you must use for the fractions?
A.3
B.4
C.7
D.12

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