Multiplying Fractions by a Whole Number
Multiplying Fractions by a Whole Number
This activity uses a number line to develop multiplication of a fraction by a whole number. It builds on the earlier concept that the product of two whole numbers r and s is r sets, each containing s elements.
This TI-Nspire™ lesson uses a number line to develop multiplication of a fraction by a whole number. It builds on the earlier concept that the product of two whole numbers r and s is r sets, each containing s elements. Using the same reasoning in the context of a number line, the product of c and the fraction would be c copies of , which is equivalent to ca copies of . Students learn how to mark a “unit” such as on a number line (e.g., a product is sold in units of of a pound) and visualize the value of 5 copies of (e.g., the amount you would have with five units).
Students should be familiar with the following vocabulary: unit fraction, factors, improper fraction, and mixed number covered in earlier activities.
This is Lesson 9 out of 15 in the Building Concepts in Mathematics: Fractions Series.
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