Add Unlike Fractions

Find a common denominator with models, then in equations.

Warm-up, learn, try it together, practice, then a quick check. About 15 minutes.

What children learn in Level 61

A cake needs 1 half teaspoon of vanilla, then 1 fourth more. How much is that? First, estimate: a little under 1.
Halves and fourths are different sizes. Rename 1 half as 2 fourths.
Now the pieces match, so add the tops. The bottom stays, because the size of the pieces hasn't changed.
With thirds and fourths, use twelfths. 2 thirds plus 1 fourth is 8 twelfths plus 3 twelfths.
An answer doesn't have to be in simplest form. 6 eighths and 3 fourths are the same amount, and both are right.

Georgia's K-12 Mathematics Standards:

5.NR.3.3 — Model and solve problems involving addition and subtraction of fractions and mixed numbers with unlike denominators.