Add and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators - 4th Grade Math

These 14 sets of differentiated worksheets aims to develop all the skills needed to add and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators. Combining 2 important areas of the Common Core 4th grade Math curriculum on fractions these resources create a smooth transition from adding and subtracting fractions less than one to adding and subtracting mixed numbers, all with the same denominators. 

The method used is as follows: 

1. Convert the mixed numbers to improper fractions

2. Add or subtract the improper fractions 

3. Convert the final fraction back to a mixed number.

There are some important additional interim steps included to make the process complete:

• Set 1: Add 2 fractions with the sum < 1 

• Set 2: Add 3 fractions with the sum < 1

• Set 3: Subtract with both fractions < 1

• Set 4: Numerical questions: Addition  & subtraction, all fractions and answers < 1

• Set 5: Convert improper fractions to mixed numbers

• Set 6: Convert mixed fractions to improper fractions Part 1: Whole number = 1

• Set 7: Convert mixed fractions to improper fractions Part 2: Whole numbers  from 1 to 4

• Set 8: Numerical questions: Convert mixed fractions to improper fractions

• Set 9: Add 2 fractions , each < 1  but  their sum >1

• Set 10: Numerical questions: Add 2 or 3 fractions with sum > 1

• Set 11: Add 2 mixed numbers

• Set 12: Subtract mixed numbers

• Set 13: Numerical questions: Add 2 mixed numbers

• Set 14: Numerical questions: Subtract mixed numbers

All the above, except where it states 'Numerical questions' , use visual fraction models.

Within all of the sets you have a choice of the level of questions. With the visual fraction models, you can decide on 3 levels how much information to provide. For the Numerical questions there are 2 levels where the range of denominators used are different, and in set 13 & 14 the range of whole numbers.

A little memory jogger on each Worksheet

At the top of the worksheets using the visual fraction model there is an example shown as a memory jogger and as a teaching tool if needed.

How many worksheets are in each set ?

Lots and lots. At the click of a button all numbers are randomised, so the questions change every time.  This will allow you to create as many new worksheets you will need for practice throughout the year (classwork, homework, revision, fillers etc) or even give small groups of students in your class different sets of questions either at the same level or differentiated .

There will certainly be enough to ensure fluency in this topic. 

You could also use any of the worksheets to explain or introduce the subject to your class as you will have almost unlimited examples to work with and they will be different from the actual worksheets you hand out to  your students.  

As these worksheets  need little explanation and no preparation, they are ideal if you need to leave work for a replacement teacher.

Answers can be found on the second page of every worksheet, are automatically generated when you create a new worksheet.

Note
These resources are PDF documents and work with the official  Adobe Acrobat Reader on Windows or Mac computers with the randomising buttons also working via a touchscreen (PC or Mac)or on an Interactive Whiteboard.

Common Core

4.NF.B.3.A

A Understand addition and subtraction of fractions as joining and separating parts referring to the same whole.

4.NF.B.3.C Add and subtract mixed numbers with like denominators, e.g., by replacing each mixed number with an equivalent fraction, and/or by using properties of operations and the relationship between addition and subtraction.

Australian  Curriculum Year 5

Investigate strategies to solve problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions with the same denominators (ACMNA103)