EDEXCEL GCSE FOUNDATION MATHS - What is Fraction Calculations

Edexcel GCSE Foundation Maths - What are Fraction Calculations?

Fractions are a fundamental concept in mathematics and are essential for everyday life. This tutorial will guide you through the basics of fraction calculations, preparing you for your Edexcel GCSE Foundation Maths exam.

Understanding Fractions

A fraction represents a part of a whole. It is written as a ratio of two numbers, the numerator and the denominator, separated by a line.

• Numerator: The top number indicates the number of parts you have.
• Denominator: The bottom number indicates the total number of parts the whole is divided into.

For example, the fraction 3/4 means you have 3 parts out of a total of 4 parts.

Types of Fractions

There are different types of fractions:

• Proper Fractions: The numerator is smaller than the denominator. (e.g., 1/2, 2/5, 3/7)
• Improper Fractions: The numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator. (e.g., 5/3, 7/4, 9/9)
• Mixed Numbers: A whole number combined with a proper fraction. (e.g., 1 1/2, 2 3/4, 3 1/3)

Converting Between Fractions

• Converting Improper Fractions to Mixed Numbers: Divide the numerator by the denominator. The quotient is the whole number part, and the remainder becomes the new numerator over the original denominator.
• Converting Mixed Numbers to Improper Fractions: Multiply the whole number by the denominator and add the numerator. This becomes the new numerator over the original denominator.

Adding and Subtracting Fractions

1. Same Denominator: If fractions have the same denominator, add or subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.
2. Different Denominators: Find the least common multiple (LCM) of the denominators. Convert both fractions to equivalent fractions with the LCM as the denominator. Then, add or subtract the numerators and keep the denominator the same.

Multiplying Fractions

1. Multiply the numerators.
2. Multiply the denominators.
3. Simplify the resulting fraction if possible.

Dividing Fractions

1. Invert the second fraction (the divisor).
2. Multiply the first fraction by the inverted second fraction.
3. Simplify the resulting fraction if possible.

Simplifying Fractions

1. Find the greatest common factor (GCF) of the numerator and denominator.
2. Divide both the numerator and denominator by the GCF.

Examples

Adding Fractions:

1/4 + 2/4 = 3/4 

1/3 + 1/2 = 2/6 + 3/6 = 5/6

Subtracting Fractions:

3/5 - 1/5 = 2/5 

2/3 - 1/4 = 8/12 - 3/12 = 5/12

Multiplying Fractions:

1/2 * 2/3 = 2/6 = 1/3

Dividing Fractions:

2/3 ÷ 1/2 = 2/3 * 2/1 = 4/3 = 1 1/3

Practice Problems

1. Add 1/3 and 1/4.
2. Subtract 2/5 from 3/4.
3. Multiply 1/2 by 2/5.
4. Divide 3/4 by 1/2.
5. Simplify 12/16.

Conclusion

This tutorial provided a comprehensive overview of fraction calculations. Mastering these concepts is crucial for your Edexcel GCSE Foundation Maths exam and everyday life. Remember to practice regularly and refer to the examples and practice problems provided. Good luck with your studies!