Remaining Fraction, Two-Step Equations
Remaining fraction and two-step equations are Grade 4 skills in Saxon Math Intermediate 4 (Chapter 7). To find the remaining fraction of a whole, subtract the known part from 1 (the whole). For 3/7 of a book read: remaining = 1 - 3/7 = 7/7 - 3/7 = 4/7. The key step is converting 1 into a fraction with the same denominator before subtracting. This skill also introduces two-step equations where students must set up and solve multi-operation problems.
Key Concepts
New Concept If we know the size of one portion of a whole, then we can figure out the size of the other portion.
What’s next Next, you’ll master finding remaining parts and begin solving two step equations—a core skill for all future math.
Common Questions
How do you find the remaining fraction of a whole?
Subtract the known fraction from 1. Rewrite 1 as a fraction with the same denominator, then subtract numerators. For 3/7 of a book read: 1 - 3/7 = 7/7 - 3/7 = 4/7 remaining.
Javier read 3/7 of his book. What fraction remains?
The whole book = 1 = 7/7. Remaining = 7/7 - 3/7 = 4/7. Javier has 4/7 of the book left to read.
Why must you convert 1 to a fraction before subtracting?
You cannot subtract fractions with different denominators. Convert 1 to the same denominator as the fraction being subtracted: if working with sevenths, 1 = 7/7.
How do you express the whole as a fraction for any denominator?
If the fraction has denominator d, write 1 as d/d. For halves: 1 = 2/2. For thirds: 1 = 3/3. For eighths: 1 = 8/8.
What fraction remains if 5/8 of a pizza has been eaten?
1 - 5/8 = 8/8 - 5/8 = 3/8. Three-eighths of the pizza remains.