Students learn how to multiply fractions with and without cancelling, multiply mixed numbers, and the meaning of reciprocals. They also learn how to divide fractions, divide mixed numbers, and to solve real-world problems.
For more help, check out our Multiply and Divide Fractions Lessons Page
Credit goes to Cognito
How To Multiply Fractions
We will describe through multiplying the fractions:
Step 1) Multiply the Numerators: 3 x 3 = 9
Multiply the numerators (the top numbers) of the fractions together. This gives you
Step 2) Multiply the Denominators: 5 x 4 = 20
Multiply the denominators (the bottom numbers) of the fractions together. This gives you
Write the result: Write down the result of the multiplication as a new fraction.
How To Divide Fractions
We will work off of this problem:
Step 1) Invert the Second Fraction
To divide by a fraction, you actually multiply by its reciprocal (the flipped version). Invert the second fraction by swapping the numerator and denominator, then change the operation to multiplication.
Step 2) Multiply the Fractions
Just multiply the numerators and denominators.
Step 3) Reduce the Fraction (If required)
To simplify this fraction, divide both the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor, which is 3, as determined by GCF(12, 15) = 3.