Reducing+Fractions


 * Read the information below on the two methods for reducing fractions. THEN, open the document at the end of the reading and complete the practice problems. Turn your work in during class.**

There are 2 methods for reducing fractions.


 * Method 1 (Always try this method first): Divide the numerator by the denominator **. If it divides evenly, then you're done and the fraction is in simplest form. If it does not go in evenly, try Method 2.

Example:
 * Method 2: Divide the numerator and the denominator by a common factor (other than 1).**

Example:
 * How do you know when a fraction is in simplest form?** When we cannot reduce a fraction any further, we say it is **in simplest form.** We know that a fraction is in simplest form when the **only common factor the numerator and denominator have is** **1** (If we divide the numerator and denominator by 1, the fraction is not going to change).

When we simplify or reduce fractions, the fraction that we begin with and the fraction that we end up with are **equivalent**.


 * Open the document below and practice reducing the fractions. Turn in your work in class. [[file:Reducing Fractions.docx]]**