Fraction Frenzy: Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators!

Mathematics Grades 5th Grade 7:40 Video
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Lesson Description

Learn how to add fractions with different denominators by finding a common denominator. Mr. J's video makes it easy and fun!

Video Resource

Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators | Math with Mr. J

Math with Mr. J

Duration: 7:40
Watch on YouTube

Key Concepts

  • Fractions
  • Unlike Denominators
  • Common Denominator
  • Least Common Multiple (LCM)
  • Equivalent Fractions
  • Simplifying Fractions

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to identify fractions with unlike denominators.
  • Students will be able to find the least common multiple (LCM) of two numbers.
  • Students will be able to rewrite fractions with a common denominator.
  • Students will be able to add fractions with unlike denominators.
  • Students will be able to simplify fractions (if necessary).

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by asking students what they already know about fractions. Review the terms numerator and denominator. Explain that this lesson will focus on adding fractions that have different denominators, which requires finding a common denominator.
  • Video Viewing (10 mins)
    Play the "Adding Fractions with Unlike Denominators | Math with Mr. J" video. Instruct students to pay close attention to how Mr. J finds the common denominator and rewrites the fractions.
  • Guided Practice (15 mins)
    Work through the examples from the video together as a class. Pause the video at key points to ask students questions and check for understanding. Emphasize the importance of finding the *least* common multiple to simplify later steps.
  • Independent Practice (15 mins)
    Provide students with a worksheet of problems involving adding fractions with unlike denominators. Circulate to provide assistance and answer questions.
  • Wrap-up (5 mins)
    Review the key steps for adding fractions with unlike denominators. Collect the worksheets for assessment.

Interactive Exercises

  • Fraction Board Game
    Create a board game where students must solve fraction addition problems to advance. Landing on certain spaces might require simplifying the fraction or finding the LCM of two numbers.
  • Online Fraction Addition Tool
    Use an online interactive tool where students can input fractions with unlike denominators and see the steps for finding the common denominator and adding them.

Discussion Questions

  • Why do we need a common denominator to add fractions?
  • What is the least common multiple and why is it important?
  • How do you create an equivalent fraction?
  • What do you do with the denominator when adding fractions once they have a common denominator?
  • What does it mean to simplify a fraction?

Skills Developed

  • Problem-solving
  • Critical thinking
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Procedural fluency

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

What do you need to add fractions with unlike denominators?

Correct Answer: A common denominator

Question 2:

What is the first step when adding 1/2 + 1/4?

Correct Answer: Find a common denominator

Question 3:

What is the least common multiple of 3 and 6?

Correct Answer: 6

Question 4:

Which fraction is equivalent to 1/3?

Correct Answer: 2/6

Question 5:

When adding fractions with a common denominator, what do you do with the denominators?

Correct Answer: Keep them the same

Question 6:

What is 2/5 + 1/5?

Correct Answer: 3/5

Question 7:

What is the common denominator of 1/3 + 1/4?

Correct Answer: 12

Question 8:

What is 1/2 + 1/2?

Correct Answer: 1

Question 9:

Which of the following is NOT a fraction?

Correct Answer: 1

Question 10:

What is the next multiple of 4 after 12?

Correct Answer: 16

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

The top number in a fraction is called the ___________.

Correct Answer: numerator

Question 2:

The bottom number in a fraction is called the ___________.

Correct Answer: denominator

Question 3:

A ___________ denominator is needed to add fractions.

Correct Answer: common

Question 4:

The smallest common multiple is called the ___________.

Correct Answer: least common multiple

Question 5:

2/4 and 1/2 are ___________ fractions.

Correct Answer: equivalent

Question 6:

To find a common denominator of 1/2 and 1/3, you can multiply 2 and 3 to get ___________.

Correct Answer: 6

Question 7:

When adding fractions with the same denominator, you only add the ___________.

Correct Answer: numerators

Question 8:

1/4 + 2/4 = ___________

Correct Answer: 3/4

Question 9:

Before adding fractions, make sure they don't have ___________ denominators.

Correct Answer: unlike

Question 10:

A fraction is in simplest form if the only common factor between the numerator and denominator is __________.

Correct Answer: 1

Educational Standards

5.N.3:Add and subtract fractions with like and unlike denominators, mixed numbers, and decimals to solve real-world and mathematical problems. 5.N.3.3:Add and subtract fractions with like and unlike denominators, mixed numbers, and decimals, involving money, measurement, geometry, and data. Use various models and efficient strategies, including but not limited to standard algorithms.

Teaching Materials

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