Adding and subtracting rational expressions, complex fractions

Content:
rational expressions, least common multiple, factoring, common denominator, adding,
subtracting, fractions
Goals:
To show students how to add and subtract rational expressions. To show students how to find the
least common multiple and/or common denominator of rational expressions. To show students
how to simplify complex fractions using a common denominator.
Objectives:
1) Students will learn how to find the least common multiple of two expressions. 2) Students
will practice finding the LCM as they look for a common denominator between two rational
expressions. 3) Students learn how to add and subtract rational expressions after they have found
the common denominator. 4) Students will have more practice finding the common denominator
as they learn how to simplify complex fractions.
Materials:
overhead, overhead markers, transparencies, whiteboard, whiteboard markers,
Introduction:
This lesson is covered in two days. The first day the teacher introduces adding and subtracting
rational expressions. Teacher starts by showing students how to find the least common multiple
of two expressions. On the seecond day the teacher introduces the idea of complex fractions by
giving students a definition of a complex fraction.
Development:
After showing the students how to find the LCM, the teacher shows the students how to add and
subtract rational expressions by first finding the LCM or common denominator. After the teacher
gives a definition of a complex fraction, the teacher shows students how to simplify complex
fractions by finding the common denominator.
Practice:
Teacher gives the students a number of examples that allow them to practice finding the LCM,
adding, subtracting, and simplifying complex fractions. These examples are either teacher led or
worked on by students in groups.
Accommodations:
verbal and visual directions and explanations, different colors
Checking For Understanding:
Teacher will have students practice by doing examples or parts of examples individually or in
small groups.
Closure:
Teacher closes each lesson by giving the homework assignment.