For this discussion , write a word problem that requires either addition or subtraction of fractions. Then, provide a strategy you think students may use in solving the problem. Describe the strategy and how this strategy would help students solve the word problem.
Word Problem:
Julia spent 2/3 of her afternoon reading a book. Then, she spent another 1/2 of her remaining time playing video games. How much time does Julia have left after these activities?
Strategy:
One strategy students may use to solve this problem is to find a common denominator for the fractions. In this case, the common denominator for 3 and 2 is 6.
First, they can convert 2/3 into sixths by multiplying the numerator and the denominator by 2. This becomes 4/6.
Next, they can convert 1/2 into sixths by multiplying the numerator and the denominator by 3. This becomes 3/6.
Then, students can add these fractions together: 4/6 + 3/6 = 7/6.
Lastly, students can convert this fraction back into a mixed number to represent the remaining time. 7/6 is equivalent to 1 and 1/6.
Therefore, Julia has 1 and 1/6 of her afternoon left after reading the book and playing video games. Using this strategy helps students visualize the fractions as equal parts of a whole, and by finding a common denominator, they are able to add the fractions together to find the answer.
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