Decisions and Actions in evaluating fraction problems Fraction Flowchart Decisions and Actions in evaluating fraction problems Graeme Henchel http://hench-maths.wikispaces.com

Decision: What is the operation? x,÷ + , -

Decision: Are there Mixed Numbers? +, - Decision: Are there Mixed Numbers? For example is a mixed number YES Mixed Numbers? NO

ACTION: Evaluate Whole numbers +, - Evaluate the whole number part and keep aside till later 4+3=7

Decision: Are there common Denominators? +, - For example and have the same (common) denominator Common Denominators? YES NO

Action: Find equivalent fractions +, - Find equivalent fractions with common (the same) denominators Multiply by a special form of 1 Multiply by a special form of 1

Action: Add or Subtract the numerators +, - Add (or subtract) the numerators this is the number of parts 2+3=5 Keep the Common Denominator. This is the name of the fraction

Decision: Is the numerator negative? +, - Decision: Is the numerator negative? Is numerator negative? YES NO This numerator is negative

Action: Borrow a whole unit +, - Action: Borrow a whole unit Borrow 1 from the whole number part Write it as an equivalent fraction Add this to your negative fraction Remember to adjust your whole number total

Action: Add any whole number part +, - Action: Add any whole number part

+, - That’s All Folks

Decision: Are there Mixed Numbers? For example is a mixed number YES NO Mixed Numbers?

Action: Change to improper fractions x,÷ Action: Change to improper fractions OR 4X5=20 and 20+3=23

Decision: Is this a X or a ÷ problem?

Action: Invert the 2nd Fraction and replace division ÷ with multiply x Invert the 2nd fraction and multiply

Decision : Is cancelling Possible? x,÷ Decision : Is cancelling Possible? Do numbers in the numerators and the denominators have common factors Yes No Common factors in numerators and denominators

Action Simplify by cancelling x,÷ Action Simplify by cancelling 1 1 ÷ 3 ÷ 5 ÷ 3 ÷ 5 2 2

ACTION: Multiply the numerators AND the denominators x,÷ ACTION: Multiply the numerators AND the denominators

Decision: Is the product improper (top heavy) x,÷ Decision: Is the product improper (top heavy) Yes No Is the fraction improper ? (top heavy)

Action: Change to a mixed Number

x,÷ That’s All Folks