Fraction Word Problems

When reading word problems containing fractions, certain phrases can indicate the operation that you need to do in order to solve the word problem.

SUBTRACTION − “How much more is needed?” “How much further than?” “How much is left?” “How bigger than?” ADDITION + “How much together?” “How far will she travel from home to the park, then to the library?”

DIVISION ÷ “Find the quotient…” “Divided into to pieces…” “How many will fit?” “How many can be split from?” MULTIPLICATION × “Times longer...” “The product of…” “A fraction of something…”

In the recent Student Government elections, Larry received of the votes for treasurer and Leah received of the votes. What fraction of the votes did both candidates earn together?

SOLUTION: 1 15 ×5 = = = 6 15 = 2525 Together they received of the votes. 2525

One tree is 6 feet tall. Another one is only 3 feet tall. How much taller is the larger of two trees. 1414

SOLUTION: = 1414 − The larger tree is feet taller than the smaller one

Sean swam 2 miles at swim team practice. If Becky swam 1 times as far as Sean, then how many miles did Becky swim?

7373 SOLUTION: Becky swam miles at swim team practice ×= 3232 ×= = =

Charlie works at a livery and uses a 60 pound bag of oats to feed the horses. If each horse gets pounds of food, then how many horses can Charlie feed with one bag of oats? 4545

SOLUTION: ÷= 5454 ×= = ÷= 60 1 One bag of oats can feed 75 horse s.