Adding Proper Fractions and Improper Fractions
Use this worksheet to teach adding proper fractions and improper fractions. Work through one example with your student before assigning independent practice.
Teaching notes for parents and teachers
Use this worksheet to teach adding proper fractions and improper fractions. Work through one example with your student before assigning independent practice.
How to teach it
Use matching fraction strips to establish equal-sized pieces. For unlike denominators, model renaming both fractions before adding the numerators. Discuss simplified fractions and equivalent mixed numbers when the sum is greater than one.
Examples to explain together
Use denominator 10: 2/10 + 85/10. Then simplify.
Use denominator 33: 30/33 + 319/33. Then simplify.
If your student needs help
If your student adds denominators, point to the unchanged size of each piece. When renaming a fraction, show why the numerator and denominator must change by the same factor.
Check understanding
Have your student subtract one original fraction from the sum. Accept equivalent fractions that represent the other addend.
Make a practice set
Select the worksheet, answer key, or both. When both are selected, the answer key prints after the questions. Keep it separate if you want your student to work independently.
After your student finishes
Review one problem together. Ask your student to explain the steps, then use the answer key to check the result. Revisit a difficult step before assigning another set.
About Adding Proper Fractions and Improper Fractions
Practice adding proper fractions and improper fractions. Focus on accuracy before speed. Use the space provided to record the steps you need.
How to practice
Fractions must refer to equal-sized parts before you combine them. For like denominators, add the numerators and keep the denominator. For unlike denominators, rewrite both fractions using a common denominator, then add. Convert a mixed number to an equivalent improper fraction when that makes the calculation easier. Finally, simplify the result.
Examples to explain together
Use denominator 10: 2/10 + 85/10. Then simplify.
Use denominator 33: 30/33 + 319/33. Then simplify.
If your student needs help
Do not add the denominators. Rewriting a fraction requires multiplying its numerator and denominator by the same number. Our answer key shows an improper fraction beside its equivalent mixed number when the result is greater than one.
Check understanding
Subtract one original fraction from the total. Use equivalent fractions if necessary to compare the result with the other addend.
Before independent practice
Work through one example together. Ask the student to explain one step, then try a few questions independently. Review the cause of an error before repeating the calculation. Compare the student’s written steps with the answer key where worked steps are provided; a correct answer alone does not show which strategy was used.