The Lesson

An algebraic fraction is a fraction which contains letters.

a over b

The Parts of an Algebraic Fraction

An algebraic fraction consists of a numerator and a denominator.

a is the numerator, b is the denominator

Examples of Algebraic Fractions

Algebraic fractions do not just contain single letters.
  • Algebraic fractions can include numbers. a over 2
  • Algebraic fractions can include terms. 2 a over b
  • Algebraic fractions can include expressions. a plus b over c

Lesson Slides

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What's in a Name?

"Algebraic" means relating to algebra. It is pronounced 'al-je-bray-ic'. "Fraction" comes from the Latin "fractus", meaning "broken". This is because the whole is 'broken' into parts.

A Fraction Is a Division

A fraction is a division. The numerator is divided by the denominator.

a over b equals a divided by b