Multiplying Multiple Fractions and Whole Numbers
Multiplying fractions might seem tricky at first, but once you know the
steps, it's as easy as pie (and we love pie fractions!)
When multiplying three or more fractions with whole numbers, remember these golden rules:
Convert whole numbers to fractions (just put them over 1), multiply all the numerators together,
multiply all the denominators together, and simplify at the end. Let's break it down step by step!
Steps to Success
1️⃣ Convert any whole numbers to fractions (e.g., 3 becomes 3/1)
2️⃣ Multiply all numerators together (top numbers)
3️⃣ Multiply all denominators together (bottom numbers)
4️⃣ Simplify your answer if possible
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Multiply \(2 \times \frac{1}{2} \times \frac{3}{4}\)
Let's solve this step by step:
- Convert 2 to a fraction: \(\frac{2}{1}\)
- Multiply numerators: \(2 \times 1 \times 3 = 6\)
- Multiply denominators: \(1 \times 2 \times 4 = 8\)
- Final answer: \(\frac{6}{8}\) which simplifies to \(\frac{3}{4}\)
Interactive Example: \(1\frac{1}{2} \times 4 \times \frac{2}{3}\)
Let's solve this together! First, convert the mixed number:
\(1\frac{1}{2} = \) (Type your answer as a fraction)
Now multiply numerators: \(3 \times 4 \times 2 = \)
Multiply denominators: \(2 \times 1 \times 3 = \)
Final fraction: \(\frac{?}{?}\) which simplifies to \(\frac{?}{?}\)
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen Math: Use measuring cups to demonstrate fraction multiplication. "If we need ½ of ⅔ cup three times, how much is that?"
- Visual Aids: Draw rectangles divided into fractions and shade portions to show the multiplication results visually.
- Real-world Problems: Create word problems about sharing pizza slices or dividing candy bars to make practice fun and relevant.