In today's blog post, we focus on the topic of Algebraic fractions. In this higher level topic, it is important to remember the fundamentals of the operations involving fractions. If adding/subtracting, remember you need a common denominator so may have to multiply your fractions (with numbers or algebraic terms). When multiplying multiply across the numerators then multiply across the denominators (cross cancel where possible). When dividing remember to multiply by the reciprocal of the second fraction (keep change flip).

For day 31 we take a look at being able express quantities as fractions of each other and how to calculate a fraction of an amount. We then move onto expressing quantities as percentages of each other and how to find a percentage of an amount.

A nice way to think about these sorts of a problem is to treat it like a test score where the first value is your score (numerator) and the second value is how many marks there were.

For day 30 we are looking at the more complex topic of turning a recurring decimal into a fraction. Here we take a look at converting simple recurring decimals into fractions with denominators of 9/99/999 etc. We then extend onto more complex recurring decimals. The best approach to these questions is to take an algebraic approach and multiply the decimal to get yourself into a position where the recurring element can be eliminated.

Important to remember that a recurring decimal is a decimal number that will have a pattern of number/s repeating infinitely. The whole point of converting the recurring decimal into a fraction is so that it is easier to calculate with.

On day 29 we are taking a closer look at Converting fractions to decimals. Having a look at the table, there are some simple fraction to decimal conversions you should know. For more complex fractions, there are two methods to consider; the first is using a division method and the other is using an equivalent fraction method.

On day 28 we are taking a closer look at Converting decimals to fractions. Having a look at the table, there are some simple decimal to fraction conversions you should know. If in doubt, use place value to place your number over 10/100/1000 etc. and then look to simplify your answer.

On day 27 we continue calculating with fractions focusing on Multiplying and Dividing fractions. Unlike addition and subtraction there is no need to have a common denominator if we are asked to multiply/ divide fractions. All you need to do is multiply numerators, multiply denominators, simplify your answer. When dividing fractions you need to flip the second fraction and multiply. (Keep Change Flip)

 Always look to see if you can cross cancel first. This will mean that you don't have to multiply large complicated numbers. When faced with mixed numbers, look to convert to improper fractions first.

Today we extend our fraction knowledge and look at calculating with fractions. The focus here will be Addition and Subtraction of fractions. In order to carry out these calculations, the denominators of your fractions need to be the same. This means that you will have to multiply one or both of the fractions to make equivalent fractions that have the same denominator. 

Remember to simplify your answers where possible to secure full marks and remember how to convert between mixed and improper fractions.

On day 25, we turn our attention to Fractions. It is important to remember that fractions are 'part' of the 'whole'. The numerator is the top number (number of parts you are focusing on) and the denominator is the bottom number (total number of parts). To secure full marks you will have to make sure that your answers are in their simplest form and this is achieved by dividing the fraction to create an equivalent fraction with smaller numbers. 

When you start calculating with fractions you will end up with combinations of improper fractions and mixed numbers. Being able to convert between these two formats will make calculations a lot easier.