Let's explore adding fractions using visual models. Our first problem is 1/4 + 1/4.
The shape is divided into different sections. The top part of the shape has two larger squares that each represent 1/4. Shading all sections of these two squares, we get 2/4s, which is equal to 1/2.
Here we need to find 2/8 plus 1/8. This section is half of 1/4. So it is 1/8.
The top right square is equal to 28. 28 + 1/8 = 3/8.
Now let's find 1/4 + 38. We can shade 3/8 like before. Then this larger triangle is 1/4 of the shape. So 1/4 + 38 = 5/8.
Next let's add 1/4 and 216.
Since this larger square is 1/4, each of these smaller squares makes up 1/16th.
We can shade these two smaller squares to represent 216 and this larger square for 1/4. So adding 1/4 and 216 equals 3/8.
Lastly, let's add 1/4, 1/8, and 216.
These two small squares represent 1/16th each. Next, this rectangle is 1/8.
Lastly, this square is 1/4. So 1/4 + 1/8 + 216 equals 1/2. We added fractions by combining fractions of a shape together.