Horizontal Practice
Focus: Whole Number − Proper Fraction. Use the worked example and teaching sequence below to explain the reasoning before independent practice.
Use New Numbers to make another set. Choose Worksheet or Answer Key, then use the worksheet’s Print button.
Teaching Notes
Focus: Whole Number − Proper Fraction. Use the worked example and teaching sequence below to explain the reasoning before independent practice.
Before You Begin
- Read the numbers and identify the operation.
Teaching Steps for Parents and Teachers
- Use a common denominator so both fractions name the same-sized parts.
- Subtract the numerators in the stated order and keep that common denominator.
- With mixed numbers, you can first convert to improper fractions.
- Simplify the difference; if it is greater than one, read the equivalent improper and mixed forms together.
Worked Examples
Evaluate (2)-(2/5).
- Use denominator 5: 2 = 10/5 and 2/5 = 2/5.
- Keep denominator 5: (10 − 2)/5 = 8/5.
- Simplify to 8/5.
Answer: 8/5
Common Mistakes and How to Help
Keep the subtraction order. Subtracting denominators or changing only a numerator does not preserve the original quantities.
Add the difference to the fraction subtracted. Simplify or find a common denominator to compare it with the starting amount.
Questions to Check Understanding
- Add the difference to the fraction subtracted. Simplify or find a common denominator to compare it with the starting amount.
- Which step explains your answer?
- Can you apply the same reasoning when the numbers change?
Practice Advice
Work through the example together. Ask the learner to explain the first two problems, then try three independently. Review the first incorrect step before assigning more practice.
Next Practice
- Use New Numbers to practice the same skill with different values.
- If the learner needs help, return to the example and model each step before trying again.