Year 4 - Maths
Solve problems involving addition and subtraction of mixed numbers
Efficient strategies for adding and subtracting mixed numbers (crossing a whole)
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will add mixed numbers. They will subtract a proper fraction from a mixed number and subtract a mixed number from a mixed number explaining which strategy is most efficient.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to solve problems involving the addition and subtraction of mixed numbers.
Key Notes
- Improper fractions can be added and subtracted in the same way as proper fractions.
- When interpreting data or solving problems, number-sense is needed to determine the most efficient strategy to use.
- Decide on the most efficient strategy by looking at the fractions of the minuend and subtrahend.
- Bar models are a useful tool to represent word problems and support in forming an equation to solve.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Mixed number: A mixed number is a whole number and a fraction combined.
- Improper fraction: An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than or equal to the denominator.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Children may not always choose an efficient strategy when adding or subtracting mixed numbers. This may result in calculation errors being made.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
Improper fractions can be added and subtracted in the same way as proper fractions. When interpreting data or solving problems, number-sense is needed to determine the most efficient strategy to use.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Mixed number'
A mixed number is a whole number and a fraction combined. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Children may not always choose an efficient strategy when adding or subtracting mixed numbers. This may result in calculation errors being made. Correction: Look at the numbers in the calculation. What do you notice? Which strategy would be most efficient to use with these numbers? Check your answer using a different strategy. If you get the same answer, you are likely to be correct.
More Lessons In This Unit
Browse all guides in the Year 4 Maths guide library.