To solve

\[
-\frac{7}{8} + \left(-\frac{1}{2}\right)
\]

we need to add the two negative fractions.

1. **Convert to a common denominator**:  
   The least common multiple of 8 and 2 is 8, so we convert \(-\frac{1}{2}\) to a fraction with denominator 8:
   \[
   -\frac{1}{2} = -\frac{4}{8}
   \]

2. **Rewrite the expression**:  
   Substitute \(-\frac{4}{8}\) for \(-\frac{1}{2}\):
   \[
   -\frac{7}{8} + \left(-\frac{4}{8}\right)
   \]

3. **Combine the fractions**:  
   Since both fractions have the same denominator, we can add the numerators directly:
   \[
   = -\frac{7 + 4}{8} = -\frac{11}{8}
   \]

The final answer is:

\[
-\frac{11}{8} \quad \text{or} \quad -1\frac{3}{8}
\]

Would you like further explanation or have any questions?

---

### Follow-up Questions
1. How do we determine the least common denominator when adding fractions?
2. What steps are needed to convert an improper fraction to a mixed number?
3. How does adding two negative fractions compare to adding positive fractions?
4. What happens when we add a positive and a negative fraction?
5. How do we simplify fractions before performing operations?

### Tip
When adding fractions, always check if you can simplify each fraction first to make calculations easier.

-\dfrac{7}{8} + \left(-\dfrac{1}{2}\right) =

Learn how to add negative fractions with the example -7/8 + (-1/2). This solution includes converting to a common denominator, combining fractions, and simplifying to find the final answer of -11/8 or -1 3/8. Suitable for students in Grades 6-8.

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