This deep dive covers Higher Level: Algebraic Fractions Preview within Fraction Operations for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Fraction Operations in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 14 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 12 of 15 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Higher Level: Algebraic Fractions Preview
The same rules apply with algebra:
- Adding: x/3 + x/4 = 4x/12 + 3x/12 = 7x/12
- Multiplying: (x/2) × (3/y) = 3x/2y
- Dividing: (a/b) ÷ (c/d) = (a/b) × (d/c) = ad/bc
Key: Treat letters like numbers, follow same operations!
Practice questions for Fraction Operations
Which of these fractions is the largest? ⅔ ¾ ⅗ ⅝
Explain why you need a common denominator when adding fractions, but not when multiplying fractions.
Quick recall flashcards
Multiplying fractions
Top × Top, Bottom × Bottom
2/3 × 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2
No need for common denominators!
Quick: 1/2 of 3/4
1/2 × 3/4 = 3/8
Half of anything: divide by 2
Or multiply by 1/2