8 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

Mathematics
First Quarter – Module 5:

Operations on Rational
Algebraic Expressions

Grade 8 Mathematics 1
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

Mathematics - Grade 8
Alternative Delivery Mode
Quarter 1 – Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions
First Edition, 2020
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Published by the Department of Education
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Development Team of the Module

Writer: Rachel Perl C. Cainila
Editor: Pamela A. Rodemio
Reviewers: Dr. Anecita U. Mendez (Moderator)
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Grade 8 Mathematics 2
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

8
Mathematics
First Quarter – Module 5:
Operations on Rational
Algebraic Expressions

Grade 8 Mathematics 3
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

Introductory Message

This module is carefully designed to continually facilitate learners

to achieve mastery on the Most Essential Learning Competencies and
develop their 21st century skills. This module consists of essential
components developed appropriately for self-instructional mode of
learning. The components come in various developmental purposes that
are designed to diagnose (pretest), recall and associate (review), discuss,
explain and even provide practice activities, enrichment tasks,
assessments and answer keys.

Upon taking the pretest, determine whether you need to take or

skip this module. At 100% accuracy, you possess the mastery of the topic
in the module; hence, you don’t need to take it and you may choose to
proceed to the next module. At 99% and below, you are recommended to
undertake the module to acquire the necessary skills.

Though allowed, adult supervision is limited only to providing

assistance in accomplishing this module. It is highly recommended that
YOU, the learner, should try to engage independently in doing the different
tasks for you to become a critical thinker and problem solver which are the
twin goals of Mathematics.

May this module be utilized to its fullest extent in the purpose of

learning the competencies construed as Most Essential for a learner in this
level.

God bless and enjoy learning!

PAMELA A. RODEMIO
Education Program Supervisor - MATH

Grade 8 Mathematics 4
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

MOST ESSENTIAL LEARNING COMPETENCY:

The learner performs operations on rational algebraic expressions. (M8AL – Ic – d – 1)

What I Need to Know

In this lesson the learner will be able to:

1. recall how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions;
2. multiply, divide, add, and subtract rational algebraic expressions; and
3. display perseverance while doing the tasks

This module deals on the different operations on rational algebraic expressions.

With the help of this, you will learn how to multiply, divide, add, and subtract rational algebraic
expressions. Here you will realize that performing the different operations on rational algebraic
expressions is very similar when adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions.

Learning how to perform the different operations on rational algebraic expressions

is very necessary most especially when solving word problems involving rational algebraic
expressions (which will be discussed in the next module).

Rational algebraic expressions are very important. In fact, they are widely used in
the field of science and mathematics. Some important uses of rational algebraic expressions
includes solving a variety of problems that involves rates, times and work. It can also be used in
expressing a formula into a specified variable like when solving for the length of a rectangle given
its area and width.

Grade 8 Mathematics 5
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

What I know

Let us find out how much you already know about this module. Write the letter that you think is
the best answer to each question on a separate sheet of paper. Answer all items. Take note all of the items
that you were not able to answer and look for the right answer as you go through this module.
𝑥4 4
1. Find the product of 8
and 𝑥 2 .
𝑥2 2 4𝑥 4 4𝑥 4
A. 2 𝑥2
B. C. 8
D. 8𝑥 2
2𝑥 5𝑥−20
2. Perform the indicated operation 3𝑥−12 ● 20𝑥2 .
1 2𝑥(𝑥−4) 1
A. 6𝑥 B. 6𝑥 C. 3𝑥 2
D. 10𝑥 2
𝑎 2 −9 𝑎 2 −8𝑎+16
3. Find the product of 𝑎2 +𝑎−20 ● 3𝑎−9 .
𝑎 2
𝑎 −1 𝑎 2 −𝑎−12 𝑎 2 −1
A. 𝑎−1 B. 1−𝑎 C. 3𝑎+15
D. 𝑎2 −𝑎 +1
𝑥−2 4𝑥−8
4. The simplified form of 3𝑥 ÷ 6𝑥 is
1 2
A. 𝑥 − 2 B. 2 C. 2
D. 𝑥−2
7𝑥 28𝑥 3
5. Perform the indicated operation ÷ .
12𝑦 9𝑦 2
𝑦 4𝑥 2 3𝑦 16𝑥 2
A. 3𝑥 2
B. 3𝑦 2
C. 16𝑥2 D. 3𝑦
6𝑎−30 3𝑎−15
6. Divide: 𝑎2 +2𝑎+1 ÷ 𝑎 2 +𝑎
2𝑎 𝑎+1
A. 2𝑎 B. 𝑎 + 1 C. D.
𝑎+1 2𝑎
5 3
7. The least common denominator of and is
𝑥 2 −𝑥−2 𝑥 2 −4
A. (x – 2) (x – 1) B. (x + 2) (x – 1) C. (x – 2)2 (x – 1) D. (x2 – 4) (x + 1)
9𝑥 5𝑥
8. The simplified form of 8
+ 8
is
7𝑥 7𝑥 2 14𝑥 2 4
A. 4
B. 4
C. 64
D. 7𝑥
𝑥 2 −3𝑥−12 5𝑥−23
9. Perform the indicated operation 𝑥−5
+ 𝑥−5
A. x – 7 B. x + 7 C. x – 5 D. x + 5
3 4
10. Add: +
𝑥+1 𝑥
7 7 7𝑥 + 4 7𝑥 + 4
A. 𝑥+1
B. 𝑥 2 +𝑥
C. 𝑥2 + 𝑥
D. 𝑥+1
2𝑎 𝑎+1
11. Find the sum: +
3 6
5𝑎+1 3𝑎+1 2𝑎 2 +1 𝑎+1
A. 6 6
B. C. 6
D. 6
6 2
12. Perform the indicated operation: 𝑥 − 𝑥
4 4 𝑥 𝑥2
A. 𝑥 2 B. 𝑥 C. 4
D. 4
𝑎+2 7
13. Find the difference: 𝑎2 −1 − 3𝑎+3
−4𝑎+13 4𝑎− 13 4𝑎+13 4𝑎−13
A. 3(𝑎2 − 1) B. 3(𝑎2 − 1) C. 𝑎 2 +1
D. 𝑎 2 −1
𝑥 2
14. The simplified form of 𝑥−1 − 𝑥 2 −1 is
𝑥−2 𝑥−1 𝑥+2 𝑥+1
A. B. C. D.
𝑥−1 𝑥−2 𝑥+1 𝑥+2
𝑎 𝑎+1
15. Subtract 6 from 4 .
𝑎+1 12 12 𝑎+3
A. 12 B. 𝑎+1 C. 𝑎+3 D. 12

Grade 8 Mathematics 6
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

What’s In

WHAT DO YOU CALL A PERSON WHO LIKES TO TURN THE

LIGHTS ON AND OFF?

Perform the following operations. Find your answer below. Write the letter that corresponds
to the exercise in the box containing the answer.
5 5 7 3 3 3
W + = S − = I ÷ =
6 6 10 10 5 5
3 5 6 7 5 2
H + = H − = T ÷ =
5 9 7 11 6 3
1 1 1 1 2 1
E + = T − = I ÷ =
2 3 2 4 3 2
1 3 3 2
S + = T × =
8 4 4 3
8 9 3
C − = R 20 × =
15 15 10

𝟕 𝟓 𝟏 𝟏 𝟓𝟐 𝟏𝟕 𝟒 𝟏 𝟓 𝟓 𝟐
1 − 6
𝟖 𝟑 𝟒 𝟏𝟓 𝟒𝟓 𝟕𝟕 𝟑 𝟐 𝟒 𝟔 𝟓

What’s New

Task 1
MULTIPLICATION AND DIVISION OF RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS
Anticipation Guide
There are sets of rational algebraic expressions in the table below. Check the
column Agree if the entry in the Column I is equivalent to the entry in the Column II and check the
column Disagree of the entries in the two columns are not equivalent.
I II Agree Disagree
5𝑡 4 5
1. ●
8 3𝑡 2 6𝑡
4𝑥 3𝑥 2 𝑦 2 2𝑥𝑦
2. ●
3𝑦 10 5

𝑥−5 4𝑥 2 + 12𝑥 + 9 2𝑥 + 3
3. ●
4𝑥 2 − 9 2𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 + 5 4𝑥 2 − 8𝑥 + 3

Grade 8 Mathematics 7
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

6𝑎𝑏 2 9𝑎2 𝑏 2 4𝑐
4. ÷
4𝑐𝑑 8𝑑𝑐 2 3𝑎

2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 6 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 8 2𝑥 − 3
5. ÷
2𝑥 2 +7𝑥+5 2𝑥 2 −3𝑥−20 𝑥−1

Task 2
ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION OF RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS
Anticipation Guide
There are sets of rational algebraic expressions in the table below. Check the
column Agree if the entry in the Column I is equivalent to the entry in the Column II and check the
column Disagree of the entries in the two columns are not equivalent.
I II Agree Disagree
2𝑥 𝑧 2𝑥 + 𝑧
1. +
5𝑦 5𝑦 5𝑦
5𝑥 𝑥 6𝑥
2. +
7 7 7
4𝑥+3 3𝑥+2 𝑥+3
3. −
𝑥−3 𝑥−3 𝑥−4
16𝑥 2 9 4𝑥 + 3
4. −
4𝑥 + 3 4𝑥 + 3
5 11 52
5. +
24𝑥 2 18𝑥 3 21𝑥 − 63
𝑎 3 𝑎2 + 3𝑎 + 3
6. +
𝑎+1 𝑎 𝑎(𝑎 + 1)

7.
𝑥−7
−
2𝑥+5 𝑥 2 + 2𝑥 + 13
𝑥+2 𝑥 2 + 8𝑥+12 (𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 4)(𝑥 + 5)
3𝑥 3𝑦 −3
8. −
𝑥−𝑦 𝑦−𝑥

What is It

In the first task, numbers 1 – 3 involve multiplication of rational algebraic expressions and
numbers 4 – 5 involve division of rational algebraic expressions.
The process of multiplying and dividing rational algebraic expressions is similar to
multiplying and dividing fractions.
 MULTIPLYING RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS
RULE: MULTIPLICATION OF FRACTIONS
To multiply fractions, we multiply the numerators together, multiply the denominators together, and
𝑎 𝑐 𝑎𝑐
then simplify. If necessary, we may use the rule 𝑏 ● 𝑑 = 𝑏𝑑 , where b ≠ 0 and d ≠ 0.

We can rewrite this rule so that it applies to multiplying rational algebraic expressions.

RULE: MULTIPLICATION OF RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS

P R8 Mathematics
Grade PR
8
● = QS , where P, Q, R and S are polynomial
Q S
expressions, where Q ≠ 0 and S ≠ 0.
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

Also, when we multiply fractions, we can simplify before or after multiplying, by dividing
out factors common to both the numerator and the denominator. For example,
2 14 28 7●2●2 4
7
● 3
= 21
= 7●3
= 3
Multiply, then eliminate common factors
or
2 14 2 7●2 4
7
● 3
= 7
● 3
= 3
eliminate common factors, then multiply.

We work the same way when we multiply rational algebraic expressions.

PROCEDURE: MULTIPLYING RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS
1. Write each numerator and denominator in factored form.
2. Divide out (cancel out) any numerator factor with any matching denominator factor.
3. Multiply the numerators and also the denominators.
4. Simplify, if possible.
Note: Always reduce your answers to lowest term if possible.

Now, let us use these steps in solving numbers 1 – 3 in Task 1.

5𝑡 4 5𝑡 2●2 Express the numerators and denominators
1.
8
● 3𝑡 2
= 2●2●2 ● 3𝑡 ● 𝑡 into prime factors if possible.
5𝑡 2●2
= 2●2●2 ● Cancel out factors common to both
3𝑡 ● 𝑡
numerator and denominator.
5
= 2 (3𝑡)
Simplify the remaining expressions by multiplying both
𝟓 numerators and both denominators.
= 𝟔𝒕

4𝑥 3𝑥 2 𝑦 2 2● 2●𝑥 3●𝑥●𝑥●𝑦●𝑦 Express the numerators and denominators

2. ● = ● into prime factors if possible.
3𝑦 10 3𝑦 5●2
2● 2●𝑥 3●𝑥●𝑥●𝑦●𝑦
= ● Cancel out factors common to both
3𝑦 5●2
numerator and denominator.
2●𝑥●𝑥●𝑥●𝑦
= 5 Simplify the remaining expressions by multiplying both
𝟐 𝒙𝟑 𝒚 numerators and both denominators.
= 𝟓

3. Multiply the rational algebraic expressions below.

𝑥−5 4𝑥 2 + 12𝑥 + 9
●
4𝑥 2 − 9 2𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 + 5

Notice that the expressions 4x2 + 12x + 9, 4x2 – 9, and 2x2 – 11x + 5 are all factorable.
This is how it looks:
4x2 + 12x + 9 = (2x + 3)2 or (2x + 3) (2x + 3)
4x2 – 9 = (2x + 3) (2x – 3)
2x2 – 11x + 5 = (2x – 1) (x – 5)
Factor them out.
𝑥−5 4𝑥 2 + 12𝑥 + 9 𝑥−5 (2𝑥+3)(2𝑥 +3)
● = ●
4𝑥 2 − 9 2𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 + 5 (2𝑥+3)( 2𝑥−3) (2𝑥−1)( 𝑥−5)

At this point, cancel out any numerator factor with matching denominator factor.
𝑥−5 (2𝑥+3)(2𝑥 +3)
= (2𝑥+3)( 2𝑥−3)
● (2𝑥−1)( 𝑥−5)
We cancelled x – 5 in both the numerator and denominator part. We also cancelled 2x + 3

Grade 8 Mathematics 9
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

in both parts. We can no longer cancel the remaining 2x + 3 in the numerator since it no longer
have any matching factor in the denominator.
Simplify.
(𝟐𝒙 +𝟑) 𝟐𝒙+𝟑
= (𝟐𝒙−𝟑)(𝟐𝒙−𝟏)
or 𝟒𝒙𝟐 − 𝟖𝒙 + 𝟑

Based on the discussions above, we can now answer Task 1 numbers 1 to 3. For number
5𝑡 4 𝟓
the answer is AGREE since
8
● 3𝑡 2
= 𝟔𝒕
. For number 2, the answer is DISAGREE since
4𝑥 3𝑥 2 𝑦 2 𝟐 𝒙𝟑 𝒚
● = . For number 3, the answer is AGREE since
3𝑦 10 𝟓

𝑥−5 4𝑥 2 + 12𝑥 + 9 𝟐𝒙+𝟑

● =
4𝑥 2 − 9 2𝑥 2 − 11𝑥 + 5 𝟒𝒙𝟐 − 𝟖𝒙 + 𝟑

Now we are done with multiplying rational algebraic expressions. Let us proceed to
dividing rational algebraic expressions.

 DIVIDING RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS

As mentioned earlier, dividing rational algebraic expressions is similar to dividing fractions.
RULE: DIVISION OF FRACTIONS
𝑎 𝑐 𝑎 𝑑
To divide fractions, we may use the rule ÷ = ● , where b, c, and d are nonzero numbers. For
𝑏 𝑑 𝑏 𝑐
example,
14 7 14 3 42 2
÷ = ● = 𝑜𝑟 .
9 3 9 7 63 3

We can rewrite the rule so that it applies to dividing rational algebraic expressions.

RULE: DIVISION OF RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS

P R P S
Q
÷ S = Q ● R , where P, Q, R and S are polynomial expressions, where Q ≠ 0, R ≠ 0 and S ≠ 0.

The procedure for dividing rational algebraic expressions is stated below.

PROCEDURE: DIVIDING RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS

1. Write the equivalent multiplication statement using the reciprocal of the divisor.
2. Factor the numerator and denominator.
3. Divide out any numerator factor with any matching denominator factor.
4. Multiply the numerators and denominators.
5. Simplify, if possible.
Note: Always reduce your answers to lowest term if possible.

Now let us use these steps in solving numbers 4 – 5 in Task 1.

6𝑎𝑏 2 9𝑎2 𝑏 2 6𝑎𝑏 2 8𝑑𝑐 2

4. ÷ = ● Invert the divisor.
4𝑐𝑑 8𝑑𝑐 2 4𝑐𝑑 9𝑎2 𝑏 2

Factor the numerator and

2●3●𝑎●𝑏●𝑏 2●2●2●𝑑●𝑐●𝑐
= ● denominator.
2●2●𝑐●𝑑 3●3●𝑎●𝑎●𝑏●𝑏
2●3●𝑎●𝑏●𝑏 2●2●2●𝑑●𝑐●𝑐
= ● Divide out the common factors.
2●2●𝑐●𝑑 3●3●𝑎●𝑎●𝑏●𝑏
2●2●𝑐
= 3●𝑎 Multiply the remaining factors in the
𝟒𝒄 numerator and denominator and simplify.
= 𝟑𝒂

Grade 8 Mathematics 10
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 6 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 8 2𝑥 2 + 𝑥− 6 2𝑥 2 −3𝑥−20
5. ÷ = ● Invert the divisor.
2𝑥 2 +7𝑥+5 2𝑥 2 −3𝑥−20 2𝑥 2 +7𝑥+5 𝑥 2 −2𝑥−8
(2𝑥−3)( 𝑥+2) (𝑥−4)(2𝑥+5)
= (2𝑥+5)( 𝑥+1)
● (𝑥+2)(𝑥−4)
Factor the numerator and denominator.
(2𝑥−3)( 𝑥+2) (𝑥−4)(2𝑥+5)
= (2𝑥+5)( 𝑥+1)
● (𝑥+2)(𝑥−4)
Divide out common factors.
𝟐𝒙−𝟑
= Simplify if possible.
𝒙+𝟏

Based on the discussions above, we can now answer Task 1 numbers 4 and 5. For number
6𝑎𝑏 2 9𝑎2 𝑏 2 𝟒𝒄
4, the answer is AGREE since ÷ = . For number 5, the answer is DISAGREE since
4𝑐𝑑 8𝑑𝑐 2 𝟑𝒂

2𝑥 2 + 𝑥 − 6 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 − 8 𝟐𝒙−𝟑
÷ = .
2𝑥 2 +7𝑥+5 2𝑥 2 −3𝑥−20 𝒙+𝟏

Now we are done with the first task. Let us now proceed to the second task. In the second
task numbers 1 – 4 involves addition and subtraction of rational algebraic expressions with like
denominators and numbers 4 – 8 involves addition and subtraction of rational algebraic expressions with
different denominators.

 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION OF RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS WITH LIKE DENOMINATORS

Adding and subtracting rational algebraic expressions with like denominators is similar to
adding and subtracting similar fractions. Similar fractions are fractions with common denominators.
RULE: ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION OF FRACTIONS WITH LIKE DENOMINATORS
To add or subtract like fractions, we add or subtract the numerators and keep the
common denominator. For example,
4 3 4+3 7 4 3 4−3 1
9
+ 9= 9 = 9 9
− 9= 9 = 9

We add or subtract rational algebraic expressions with like denominators the same way.
RULE: ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION OF RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS WITH LIKE
DENOMINATORS
𝐴 𝐵
If and are any two rational algebraic expressions, then
𝐶 𝐶
𝐴 𝐵 𝐴+𝐵 𝐴 𝐵 𝐴−𝐵
𝐶
+ 𝐶
= 𝐶
𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐶
− 𝐶
= 𝐶
, where C ≠ 0

The following are the steps involved in adding and subtracting rational algebraic
expressions with like denominators.

PROCEDURE: ADDING AND SUBTRACTING RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS WITH LIKE

DENOMINATORS
1. Add (or subtract) the numerators.
2. Retain the common denominator.
3. Simplify the result.
Note: Always reduce your answers to lowest term if possible.
Now let us use these steps in solving numbers 1 – 4 in Task 2.
2𝑥 𝑧 𝟐𝒙+𝒛
1. + = Add the numerator and keep the same denominator. Since 2x and z
5𝑦 5𝑦 𝟓𝒚
are not like terms, we express the numerator as a polynomial.
5𝑥 𝑥 5𝑥+𝑥
2. + = Add the numerator and keep the same denominator.
7 7 7

Grade 8 Mathematics 11
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions
𝟔𝒙
= Combine similar terms.
𝟕

When adding or subtracting rational algebraic expressions, each numerator must be

treated as if it were enclosed in parentheses. For example,
9𝑥−13 𝑥+4 (9𝑥−13)+(𝑥+4) 9𝑥−13+𝑥+4 10𝑥−9
+ = = = .
7 7 7 7 7
Based on the discussions above, we can now answer Task 2 numbers 1 to 2. For number
2𝑥 𝑧 𝟐𝒙+𝒛
1, the answer is AGREE since + = . For number 2, the answer is AGREE since
5𝑦 5𝑦 𝟓𝒚
5𝑥 𝑥 6𝑥
+ = .
7 7 7
For some subtraction problems, it may be necessary to insert parentheses around each
numerator. When subtracting numerators, apply the distributive property when removing the
parentheses to simplify.
4𝑥+3 3𝑥+2 (4𝑥 +3) − (3𝑥+2)
3. − = Subtract the numerators and keep the same denominator.
𝑥−3 𝑥−3 𝑥−3
4𝑥 + 3 − 3𝑥 − 2
= 𝑥−3
Remove the parentheses. Be sure to apply the distributive
property when removing the parentheses.
𝒙+𝟏
= Combine like terms.
𝒙−𝟑

16𝑥 2 9 16𝑥 2 − 9
4. − = Subtract the numerator and keep the same denominator.
4𝑥 + 3 4𝑥 + 3 4𝑥+3
(4𝑥+3)(4𝑥−3)
= (4𝑥+3)
Factor the numerator.
(4𝑥+3)(4𝑥−3)
= (4𝑥+3)
Divide out the common factor 4x + 3

= 4x – 3
Based on the discussions above we can now answer Task 2 numbers 3 to 4. For number
4𝑥+3 3𝑥+2 𝒙+𝟏
3, the answer is DISAGREE since − = . For number 4, the answer is DISAGREE since
𝑥−3 𝑥−3 𝒙−𝟑
16𝑥 2 9
− = 4x – 3 .
4𝑥 + 3 4𝑥 + 3
Now we are done with adding and subtracting rational algebraic expressions with like
numerators, let us now proceed to adding and subtracting rational algebraic expressions with different
denominators.

 ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION OF RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS WITH DIFFERENT

DENOMINATORS
To add or subtract rational algebraic expressions with different denominators, we
use the same process that we use to add or subtract unlike fractions.
PROCEDURE: ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION OF FRACTIONS WITH DIFFERENT DENOMINATORS
To add or subtract unlike fractions, do the following:
1. Find the least common denominator or LCD
2. Rewrite each fraction into its equivalent fraction using the LCD obtained.
3. Now, add or subtract the “new fractions” using the rules when adding or subtracting similar
fractions.
4. Simplify the result if necessary.
For example,
7 2 1(7) 3(2) 7 6 13 7 2 1(7) 3(2) 7 6 1
15
+ 5
= 15
+ 15 = 15
+ 15 = 15 15
− 5
= 15
− 15 = 15
− 15 = 15
Grade 8 Mathematics 12
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

We add or subtract rational algebraic expressions with different denominators the same
way.
PROCEDURE: ADDITION AND SUBTRACTION OF RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS WITH
DIFFERENT DENOMINATORS
1. Find the least common denominator or LCD.
2. Write the equivalent expression of each rational algebraic expression using the LCD obtained.
3. Add or subtract the numerators and keep the LCD.
4. Simplify the result if necessary.
Note: Always reduce your answers to lowest term if possible.
Now let us use these steps in solving numbers 5 – 8 in Task 2.
5 11
5. +
24𝑥 2 18𝑥 3
5 11
To solve this, we first need to find the LCD of 24𝑥2 and 18𝑥 3 .

Factor each denominator into a product of prime factors.

24x2 = 2 ● 2 ● 2 ● 3 ● x2 = 23 ● 3 ● x2
18x3 = 2 ● 3 ● 3 ● x3 = 2 ● 32 ● x3

To find the LCD, include 2, 3, and x the greatest number of times it appears in any of the
factorizations.
The greatest number of times that 2 appears is three times (in 23 ● 3 ● x2).
The greatest number of times that 3 appears is twice (in 2 ● 32 ● x3).
The greatest number of times that x appears is three times (in 2 ● 32 ● x2).
LCD = 23 ● 32 ● x3 = 72x3
5 11
Express 24𝑥2 and 18𝑥3 into its equivalent expression using the LCD as their denominators by dividing
the LCD by the original denominator, then multiplying the quotient with the numerator.
72x3 (LCD) ÷ 24x2 (original denominator) = 3x
5 11 3𝑥 (5) 4 (11)
24𝑥 2
+ 18𝑥 3
= 72𝑥 3
+ 72 𝑥3
15𝑥 44
72x3 (LCD) ÷ 18x3 (original denominator) = 4
= 72𝑥 3
+ 72𝑥 3
𝟏𝟓𝒙 + 𝟒𝟒 Add using the rules in adding rational
= 𝟕𝟐𝒙𝟑 algebraic expressions with like denominators.

𝑎 3 𝑎●𝑎 3(𝑎+1)
6. + = + Find the LCD.
𝑎+1 𝑎 𝑎(𝑎+1) 𝑎(𝑎+1)
a + 1 = (a + 1) ● 1
𝑎2 3𝑎+3
= + a=a●1
𝑎(𝑎+1) 𝑎(𝑎+1) Hence the LCD is a(a + 1), since they do not
𝒂𝟐 +𝟑𝒂+ 𝟑 𝒂𝟐 +𝟑𝒂+ 𝟑 have any common factor other than 1.
= 𝒂(𝒂+𝟏)
or 𝒂𝟐 +𝒂

Find the LCD. (x + 2) will only appear once in the LCD since
𝑥−7 2𝑥+5 the greatest number of times it appears in
7. − x + 2 = (x + 2) any of the factorizations is once.
𝑥+2 𝑥 2 + 8𝑥+12 x2 + 8x + 12 = (x + 2) (x + 6)
(𝑥+6)(𝑥−7) (2𝑥+5) Hence the LCD is (x + 2)(x + 6)
= − (𝑥+2)(𝑥+6)
(𝑥+2) (𝑥+6)
𝑥 2 −𝑥−42 (2𝑥+5)
= − (𝑥+2)(𝑥+6)
(𝑥+2) (𝑥+6)

(𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 42)−(2𝑥 + 5) 𝑥 2 −𝑥− 42 − 2𝑥 − 5 𝒙𝟐 −𝟑𝒙−𝟒𝟕 𝒙𝟐 −𝟑𝒙−𝟒𝟕

= (𝑥+2) (𝑥+6)
= (𝑥+2) (𝑥+6)
= (𝒙+𝟐) (𝒙+𝟔) 𝒐𝒓 𝒙𝟐 +𝟖𝒙+𝟏𝟐

Grade 8 Mathematics 13
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions
3𝑥 3𝑦
8. − Notice that the second denominator is the negative of the first. We can
𝑥−𝑦 𝑦−𝑥
multiply the numerator and denominator of the second fraction by -1.
3𝑥 −1(3𝑦)
= 𝑥−𝑦
− −1(𝑦−𝑥)
3𝑥 −3𝑦
= 𝑥−𝑦 − −𝑦+𝑥
3𝑥−(−3𝑦)
= 𝑥−𝑦
Note that x – y and –y + x are equal.
𝟑𝒙 + 𝟑𝒚
= 𝒙−𝒚

Based on the discussions above, we can now answer Task 2 numbers 4 to 8. For
5 11 𝟏𝟓𝒙 + 𝟒𝟒
number 5, the answer is DISAGREE since 24𝑥 2 + 18𝑥 3
= 𝟕𝟐𝒙𝟑
. For number 6, the answer is
𝑎 3 𝒂𝟐 +𝟑𝒂+ 𝟑 𝑥−7
AGREE since + = . For number 7, the answer is DISAGREE since −
𝑎+1 𝑎 𝒂(𝒂+𝟏) 𝑥+2
2𝑥+5 𝒙𝟐 −𝟑𝒙−𝟒𝟕 3𝑥 3𝑦 𝟑𝒙 + 𝟑𝒚
= . For number 8, the answer is DISAGREE since − = 𝒙−𝒚 .
𝑥 2 + 8𝑥+12 𝒙𝟐 +𝟖𝒙+𝟏𝟐 𝑥−𝑦 𝑦−𝑥

What’s More

A. Independent Activity 1
Fill in the blanks to make each statement true.
𝑚 𝑣
1. If n and s are nonzero numbers, then ● = ________.
𝑛 𝑠
𝑚 𝑣 𝑚
2. If n, s and v are nonzero numbers, then 𝑛
÷𝑠= 𝑛
● _________.
8 4
3. The LCD of 7𝑥 − 21
and 3𝑥 − 9 is ________________________.
2𝑎 3𝑎
4. The LCD of and is ___________________________.
3𝑥 9𝑥 2
𝑥+1 𝑥−3
5. The LCD of and is __________________
𝑥 2 −5𝑥+6 𝑥 2 −4𝑥+4

B. Independent Assessment 1
Match Column A with Column B. Write the letter on the blank before each number.
Column A Column B
2𝑥 2 𝑥 2 −4 2𝑥 2 − 5
_____1. 𝑥−2
● 4𝑥 3
A. (𝑥+1)(𝑥+2)

𝑥−5 𝑥 3 −3𝑥 2 2𝑥 + 7
_____2. ( 𝑥 2 ) ( 3𝑥−15 ) B. 2𝑥−5
𝑥2 − 9 2𝑥−6 𝑥(𝑥+3)
_____3. 𝑥2
÷ 𝑥3
C. 2
5𝑥 + 3 3𝑥−4 𝑥−3
_____4. 2𝑥 − 5
− 2𝑥−5 D. 3
𝑥−2 𝑥−1 𝑥+2
_____5. 𝑥+1
+ 𝑥+2
E. 2𝑥

Grade 8 Mathematics 14
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

C. Independent Activity 2
Perform the indicated operations. Reduce answers to lowest terms.

7𝑥 2 18
1. 6
● 𝑥2

𝑥2− 1 12𝑥
2. 48𝑥
● 7𝑥 + 7

𝑥 2 + 4𝑥 + 3 𝑥+2
3. 𝑥+3
● 𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 + 2

𝑥2 𝑥
4. 4𝑦
÷ 4𝑦

𝑎2 + 𝑎 − 6 𝑎 2 −4
5. 2
𝑎 −1
● 2
𝑎 +𝑎−2

D. Independent Assessment 2
Perform the indicated operations. Reduce answers to lowest terms.

3 5
1. +
𝑎 𝑎

5𝑏+3 3𝑏−4
2. −
2𝑏−5 2𝑏−5

5 𝑥
3. +
𝑥 𝑥+1

3 2
4. 𝑎2 − 𝑏2
− 𝑎+𝑏

𝑥+3 2𝑥+1
5. 𝑥 2 −5𝑥+6
+ 𝑥−2

E. Independent Activity 3
Write the letter which corresponds to the correct answer on the blank before each number.
𝑥 2 −1 6𝑥
_____1. The simplified form of 3𝑥
● 2𝑥−2
is
2
A. 2x . B. x + 1 . C. x – 1 . D. 𝑥−1
.
𝑥 2 + 3𝑥−4 𝑥 2 +𝑥 − 6
_____2. Multiply 𝑥 2 −3𝑥 + 2
by 𝑥 2 +7𝑥+12
1
A. x2 + 2x – 8 B. 𝑥−2
C. 1 D. 0
𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 6 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥
_____3. Perform the indicated operation 𝑦2
÷ 𝑦
𝑥−3 𝑥𝑦
A. 𝑥𝑦
B. x – 3 C. xy D. 𝑥−3
(𝑥−3)( 𝑥−3) (𝑥−4)(𝑥+1)
_____4. 𝑥 2 −2𝑥−3
● 2𝑥−8
𝑥−3 𝑥+1 𝑥−4 𝑥+3
A. 2
B. 2
C. 2
D. 2
4(𝑥+1) 8(𝑥+1)
_____5. ÷
𝑥 2 −4 𝑥−2
1 1 1 1
A. 2(𝑥+2)
B. 2(𝑥+ 1)
C. 2(𝑥−1)
D. 2(𝑥−2)

Grade 8 Mathematics 15
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

F. Independent Assessment 3
Write the letter which corresponds to the correct answer on the blank before each number.
3 −𝑥−10
_____1. When 𝑥−5
is subtracted from a rational algebraic expression, the result is 𝑥 2 −5𝑥
. What is
the other rational algebraic expression?
𝑥 𝑥 2 2
A. 4
B. 𝑥−5
C. 𝑥
D. − 𝑥−5
3 𝑚
_____2. The sum of 𝑚−1
+ 1−𝑚
is equal to
3−𝑚 𝑚− 3
A. 3 – m B. 3 C. 𝑚−1
D. 𝑚−1
3 5
_____3. The simplified form of − is
𝑎−2 𝑎+3
19 − 2𝑎 2𝑎 − 19 2𝑎 19 − 2𝑎
A. 𝑎−2
B. 𝑎+3
C. (𝑎−2)( 𝑎+3)
D. (𝑎−2)( 𝑎+3)
5
_____4. 2 + 𝑎+1
𝑎+7 7 2𝑎 + 5 2𝑎 + 7
A. 𝑎+1
B. 𝑎+1
C. 𝑎+1
D. 𝑎+1
2𝑥 2 −𝑥 −8 𝑥(𝑥+1)
_____5. 𝑥 2 −4𝑥
− 𝑥(𝑥−4)

𝑥2+ 2 𝑥+2 𝑥+2 𝑥+2

A. 𝑥
B. 𝑥
C. 𝑥−4
D. 𝑥2

What I Have Learned

GRAPHIC ORGANIZER
To summarize your understanding about this module, complete the chart
below.
OPERATIONS ON RATIONAL ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSIONS

Example: Example:

Example: Example: Example: Example:

Grade 8 Mathematics 16
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

What I can Do
The following activities will help you use your understanding about this
module in some real – life scenarios.

A. 2x + 20

A.

B. Kinetic energy Ek is the energy of motion. The work of an external

force is equal to the change in the kinetic energy, or Work = Ek2 - Ek1.
Complete the table below using the formula above.

Work Ek1 Ek2

1. 3 2
𝑥 𝑥+3
2. 5 4
𝑦−1 𝑦+5

3. 7 2𝑐
𝑐−3 𝑐 2 −9

Assessment

Directions: Read each question carefully. Write the letter that corresponds to your answer on a separate
sheet of paper.
1. Which of the following is true?
1
A. For any nonzero number x, 5 ÷ x = 5
● x.
7 𝑥−2 7
B. If x ≠ 0 and x ≠ , then, 𝑥 ÷ 𝑥
= 𝑥−2
.
𝑥−7 7−𝑥 1
C. 6
÷ 3
= 2
, for any value of x except 5.
D. When a rational expression is reduced to its lowest term, its value decreases.
1 3 𝑥+1
2. What is the least common denominator of 2𝑥 3
, − 6𝑥 2 , and 9𝑥
?
6 3
A. 9x B. 18x C. 54x D. 108
3𝑥 16𝑥
3. Divide − by .
4 9
27 4𝑥 2 64𝑥 2 3
A. − B. − C. − D. −
64 3 27 4
𝑥 2 + 3𝑥 − 4 𝑥2 + 𝑥 − 6
4. Multiply 2 by 2 .
𝑥 −3𝑥+2 𝑥 + 7𝑥 + 12
1
A. x2 + 2x – 8 B. 𝑥−2 C. 1 D. 0

Grade 8 Mathematics 17
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions
3 1
5. Subtract from .
𝑥+3 𝑥−3
2𝑥−12 12 − 2𝑥 2𝑥 − 6 −2𝑥 − 6
A. 𝑥 2 −9
B. 𝑥2 − 9
C. 𝑥2− 9
D. 𝑥 2 −9
1 1
6. What must be added to to produce ?
𝑥 3
1 𝑥+3 𝑥−3
A. − B. 3x C. D.
3𝑥 3𝑥 3𝑥
𝑦 2 +𝑦 − 6 𝑦 2 − 4𝑦 + 4
7. Divide: 6𝑦 2 + 18𝑦
÷ 4𝑦 2 𝑧 − 8𝑦𝑧
2 2𝑧 2 3
A. 3𝑧
B. 3
C. 3
D. 2
𝑘−6 −25𝑦
8. Multiply: ●
15𝑦 6−𝑘
5 3 5 3
A. 3
B. 5
C. − 3 D. − 5
𝑥+3 2𝑥 + 1
9. Find the sum: 𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 + 6 + 𝑥−2
2𝑥 𝑥−3
A. 𝑥−3
B. 2𝑥 C. x–3 D. 2x
3𝑥 2𝑥
10. Add: 6
+ 6
5𝑥 5𝑥 2 18𝑥 6
A. 6
B. 6
C. 12
D. 5𝑥
11. What is the perimeter of the figure below?
5𝑎
3𝑎
2
4

13𝑎 8𝑎 26𝑎
A. B. C. D. 13a
2 2 4
12. To multiply fractions, we multiply their ___________ and multiply their denominator.
A. numerator B. reciprocal of the numerator C. LCD D. none of the above
6𝑎−30 𝑎2 + 𝑎
13. Multiply 𝑎2+ 2𝑎 + 1
● 3𝑎−15
2𝑎 𝑎+1
A. 𝑎+1
B. 2𝑎
C. a + 1 D. 2a
7𝑥 28 𝑥 3
14. Divide: ÷
12𝑦 9𝑦 2
3𝑦 16𝑥 2
A. 16𝑥 2
B. 3𝑦
C. 16x2 D. 3y
3𝑦 𝑦+2
15. Subtract: 4
− 4
𝑦−1 𝑦−2 2 4
A. 2
B. 4
C. 𝑦−1
D. 𝑦−2

Grade 8 Mathematics 18
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

Additional Activities

WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?

Rewrite the solution in the first box. Write your solution in the second box. In the
third box, write your explanation on how your solution corrects the original one.

Grade 8 Mathematics 19
 20 Grade 8 Mathematics
WHAT I KNOW
1. A 2. B 3. C 4. C 5. C
6. C 7. D 8. A 9. B 10. C
11. A 12. B 13. A 14. C 15. D
WHAT’S IN
Answer: SWITCHHITTERS
WHAT’S MORE
𝑚𝑣 𝑠
A. 1. 𝑛𝑠 2. 𝑣
3. 21(x – 3) 4. 9x2 5. (x – 2)2(x – 3)
B. 1. E 2. D 3. C 4. B 5. A
𝑥−1 𝑎+3
C. 1. 21 2. 28
3. 1 4. X 5. 𝑎+1
8 2𝑏+7 𝑥 2 +5𝑥+5 3−2𝑎+2𝑏 2𝑥
D. 1. 𝑎 2. 2𝑏−5
3. 𝑥 2 +𝑥
4. 𝑎2 − 𝑏2
5. 𝑥−3
E. 1. B 2. C 3. A 4. A 5. A
F. 1. C 2. C 3. D 4. D 5. B
WHAT I HAVE LEARNED
Answers may vary.
WHAT I CAN DO
5(𝑥−10)
A. 1. 4
−𝑥−9 −𝑦−29 −5𝑐−21
B. 1. 𝑥 ( 𝑥+3) 2. (𝑦+5)(𝑦−1)
3. 𝑐 2 −9
ASSESSMENT
1. B 2. B 3. A 4. C 5. B
6. D 7. B 8. A 9. A 10. A
11. A 12. A 13. A 14. A 15. A
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
3𝑥+6 −𝑎+15 −3𝑥+9
1. −𝑥(𝑥 2 −36) 2. 𝑎(𝑎−5) 3. −(2𝑥−3) 4. b – 2
Key to Correction
Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

References:

Oronce, Orlando A., et. al. (2010). E-math Intermediate Algebra Revised
Edition, (pp. 206 – 230), Philippines: Rex Book Store, Inc.
Firmalino, Sandra Bernadette F., et. al. (2017). Realistic Math Scaling
Greater Heights, (pp. 49 – 65), Philippines: Sibs Publishing
House, Inc.
Sumagit, Katrina Grace Q., et. al. (2013). Next Generation Math, (pp. 35
– 52), Philippines: Diwa Learning Systems, Inc.
Diaz, Zenaida E., et. al. (2007). Next Century Mathematics Intermediate
Algebra Second Edition, (pp. 168 – 213), Philippines: Phoenix
Publishing House, Inc.
Bernabe, Julieta G., et. al. (2009). Intermediate Algebra Revised
Edition,(pp. 75 – 84), Philippines: SD Publications, Inc.
Abuzo, Emmanuel P., et. al. (2013). Mathematics 8 Learner’s Module,
(pp. 86 – 99), Philippines: Book Media Press, Inc., Printwell, Inc.
Oronce, Orlando A., et. al. (2010). E-math Elementary Algebra Revised
Edition, (p. 18), Philippines: Rex Book Store, Inc.

Grade 8 Mathematics 21
 Module 5: Operations on Rational Algebraic Expressions

For inquiries and feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education, Region VII, Division of Cebu Province

IPHO Bldg. Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City
Telefax: (032) 255 6405
Email Address: [email protected]

Grade 8 Mathematics 22