Rational Expressions: Adding & Subtracting

Adding and subtracting of rational expressions requires that the fractions have common denominators. If they do, then add or subtract the numberators and keep the same denominator.

Example:

However, if the fractions do not already have a least common denominator, then the LCD must be made. To do this,

1. Factor the denominators.
2. Multiply each denominator by what the other denominator has but it doesn't already have.
3. Remember, whatever you multiply by on the bottom of a fraction, you must also multiply by in the top of a fraction.

Example:

Homework: Page 173, #1 - 10, 13 - 17, 20; Page 174, #1 - 3

It was very nice to see so many students take advantage of today's help sessions. Remember, every Tuesday and Thursday morning & afternoon there is an IAA teacher willing to work with our IAA students!!

The test will be on Friday covering square roots, polynomials, factoring, and rationals. Students will receive a thorough review sheet tomorrow. There is a review session Thursday morning at 7:45 am, in room 4303.

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