In this Grade 5 lesson from enVision Mathematics Chapter 7, students learn how to subtract fractions with unlike denominators by finding a common multiple, renaming fractions as equivalent fractions with a common denominator, and then subtracting the numerators. The lesson uses the Identity Property to rewrite fractions such as 2/3 and 1/4 as equivalent fractions with a denominator of 12 before subtracting. Practice problems progress from guided examples to independent and real-world problem-solving applications.
Section 1
Subtracting Fractions by Rewriting with Common Denominators
To subtract fractions with unlike denominators, they must first be rewritten as equivalent fractions with a common denominator.
Once the fractions have like denominators, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.
Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.
Section 1
Subtracting Fractions by Rewriting with Common Denominators
To subtract fractions with unlike denominators, they must first be rewritten as equivalent fractions with a common denominator.
Once the fractions have like denominators, subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.