To subtract fractions, you need to check if the bottom numbers (denominators) are the same.
Case 1: Same Denominators
If the denominators are already the same, you simply subtract the top numbers (numerators) and keep the denominator exactly as it is.
* Example from the image: $\frac{3}{5} - \frac{1}{5}$
* Subtract the tops: $3 - 1 = 2$
* Keep the bottom: $5$
* Result: $\frac{2}{5}$
Case 2: Different Denominators
If the denominators are different, you cannot subtract them directly. You must first make them the same by finding a common denominator. A simple way to do this is to multiply the numerator and denominator of each fraction by the other fraction's denominator.
* Example from the image: $\frac{1}{7} - \frac{3}{14}$ is not quite right based on the visual steps shown, let's look closer at the specific example provided: $\frac{1}{2} - \frac{3}{7}$? No, looking at the numbers:
* The problem starts with $\frac{1}{2}$ and $\frac{3}{7}$? Let's re-read the right side carefully.
* It shows $\frac{1}{2}$ becoming $\frac{1 \times 7}{2 \times 7} = \frac{7}{14}$.
* It shows $\frac{3}{7}$ becoming $\frac{3 \times 2}{7 \times 2} = \frac{6}{14}$.
* So the original problem was likely $\frac{1}{2} - \frac{3}{7}$.
* Now that both have a denominator of 14, you subtract the numerators: $7 - 6 = 1$.
* The denominator stays 14.
* Result: $\frac{1}{14}$
The image demonstrates these two standard methods for subtracting fractions.
Final Answer:
The image illustrates two methods for subtracting fractions:
1.
Same Denominators: Subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same ($\frac{3}{5} - \frac{1}{5} = \frac{2}{5}$).
2.
Different Denominators: Find a common denominator by cross-multiplying or finding the least common multiple, convert the fractions, and then subtract the numerators ($\frac{1}{2} - \frac{3}{7}$ becomes $\frac{7}{14} - \frac{6}{14} = \frac{1}{14}$).
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of adding and subtracting fractions examples.
