Stratton 1

9.2 Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

Whitney Stratton
CT: Shaun Danicek
Common Core State Standards:
HSA-APR.D.7: Understand that rational expressions form a system analogous to the rational
numbers, closed under addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division by a nonzero rational
expression; add, subtract, multiply, and divide rational expressions.
HSA.SSE.B.3: Choose and produce an equivalent form of an expression to reveal and explain
properties of the quantity represented by the expression.

Unit Outcome:
Simplify rational expressions.
Graph rational functions.
Identify graphs and equations as different types of functions.

Lesson Outcomes:
TLW understand that rational expressions are closed under addition, subtraction, multiplication,
and division, meaning that:
A rational expression plus a rational expression is a rational expression.
A rational expression minus a rational expression is a rational expression.
A rational expression times a rational expression is a rational expression.
A rational expression divided by a rational expression is a rational expression.
TLW determine the LCM of polynomials.
TLW add and subtract rational expressions.

Rationale/Purpose for Lesson:

The purpose of this lesson is to show the students how to simplify rational expressions. Rational
expressions, functions, and equations can be used to solve problems involving mixtures, electricity,
medicine and travel. I will show them how to add and subtract rational expressions by finding the
least common multiple of the polynomials to determine the common denominator.

Assessment:
I will frequently ask my students if they are understanding the material. This will determine if I need
to go slower or faster in my instruction. I will later assign a homework assignment to see how well
they can simplify the rational expressions.

Resources/Materials Required:
Note Packets
Pen/Pencil
Homework assignment

Stratton 2

Introduction:
I will start the class by taking attendance. In the morning we have the Pledge of Allegiance, so I
have a couple of minutes to do attendance quick. I will also have a couple of warm-up questions on
the board. I will them ask for any questions on the homework assignment from yesterday.

Procedures: (55 minute class)

0-10 minutes: Introduction
Attendance.
Warm-up
Questions on homework.
Take out notes.
15-40 minutes: Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions Notes
Least Common Multiple (LCM)
Least Common Denominator (LCD)
LCM of Monomials
LCM of Polynomials
Add/Subtract Rational Expressions
Monomial Denominators
Polynomial Denominators
40-55 minutes: Homework
I will pass out the homework.
They will have the next 15 minutes to ask questions and finish the assignment.

Guided Study: They now have their note packet to refer back to. They can use this to help
them through he homework problems.
Homework: (when appropriate)
I will assign a worksheet for them to practice adding and subtracting rational expressions.

Closure:
I will ask if they have any questions on the lesson or about the homework.