To find the total distance Barbra ran, we need to add the two fractions together:
- Barbra ran before lunch: \( \frac{2}{8} \) of a mile.
- Barbra ran after lunch: \( \frac{3}{12} \) of a mile.
First, we can simplify both fractions:
- \( \frac{2}{8} = \frac{1}{4} \)
- \( \frac{3}{12} = \frac{1}{4} \)
Now, we can add the two fractions together:
\[ \frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{4} = \frac{2}{4} = \frac{1}{2} \]
Thus, the total distance Barbra ran is:
\[ \frac{1}{2} \text{ mile} \]
So, Barbra ran \( \frac{1}{2} \) mile in total.