What is a fraction? A fraction is a part of a whole.
If it helps, in these explanations at least, think of these fractions as quarters and the whole number as ONE DOLLAR.
When adding fractions, make sure the bottom numbers are all the same. After that, only ONE (of three) things can happen.
| The bottom number must be the same in all the fractions: | 2/4 + 2/4 = 4/4 |
| Do the addition using the top numbers: | 2/4 + 2/4 = 4/4 |
| Look at the answer: | 4/4 |
| Top and bottom are the same? Answer is always "1": | 1 |
| The bottom number must be the same in all the fractions: | 3/4 + 2/4 = 5/4 |
| Do the addition using the top numbers: | 3/4 + 2/4 = 5/4 |
| Look at the answer: | 5/4 |
| Top is bigger than bottom? | yes |
| We already know what 4/4 is: | 1 |
| What's left? | 1/4 |
| Answer: | 1 - 1/4 |
| The bottom number must be the same in all the fractions: | 1/4 - 2/4 = 1/4 |
| Do the addition using the top numbers: | 1/4 - 2/4 = 3/4 |
| Look at the answer. | 3/4 |
| Top is bigger than bottom? | no |
| Then leave it be. The final answer is: | 3/4 |