TutorGiant.com : How Do I Subtract Improper Fractions

Tips > Math Tips

Math – Subtracting Fractions (Part 2): How Do I Subtract Improper Fractions

TutorGiant

In Subtracting Fractions (Part 1) we learned how to subtract fractions less than 1. We can also subtract fractions greater than 1 (also called improper fractions).

If we want to calculate 9/4 – 7/4 we can easily subtract the two fractions because we have the same denominator. So, we have to subtract 9-7 = 2. We are left with the fraction 2/4 or ½.

Let’s assume we have the fractions 11/5 and 6/3. We want to subtract the fractions but they have different denominators. We have to find a common denominator first.

For the first fraction: 11 x 3 = 33

5 x 3 = 15

For the second fraction: 6 x 5 = 30

3 x 5 = 15

Now we have the fractions 33/15 – 30/15 =3/15.

We can reduce 3/15: 3 divided by 3 = 1

15 divided by 3 = 5

The answer is 1/5.

Let’s review the process.

1. We found a common denominator.

2. We changed the fractions (both numerators and denominators).

3. We reduced the fraction.

Subtracting fractions greater than 1 involves almost the same skills as subtracting fractions less than 1. Make sure your child is proficient at finding common denominators and reducing fractions.

©Tutorgiant.com

Tutorgiant.com provides complete Fractions lessons with worksheets.

See some of the lessons in our video library.

FRACTIONS - Lesson (A) Introduction to Fractions (Grades 1-2)

FRACTIONS - Lesson (B) Fractions of Sets (Grade 3)

FRACTIONS - Lesson (C) Comparing Fractions (Grade 3)

FRACTIONS - Lesson (D) Equivalent (Grades 4-5)

FRACTIONS - Lesson (E) Equivalent (Numerical) (Grades 4-5)

FRACTIONS - Lesson (F) Changing Fractions to Decimals (Grades 4-5)

FRACTIONS - Lesson (F2) Changing Fractions to Decimals Using Division (Grades 5-6)

FRACTIONS - Lesson (G) Changing Decimals into Fractions (Grades 4-6)

FRACTIONS - Lesson (H) Comparing (Grade 5)