Understanding Fraction Multiplication
Multiplying fractions by whole numbers is like making repeated jumps on a number line!
When we multiply a fraction by a whole number, we're adding that fraction to itself multiple times. Number lines help us see exactly how this works by showing each "jump" of the fraction.
How to Multiply Fractions on a Number Line
1️⃣ Draw a number line with appropriate fractions marked
2️⃣ Make jumps equal to your fraction for each whole number
3️⃣ Land on your final answer after all jumps
Let's Try Some Examples!
Example 1: 3 × ¼
This means we need to make 3 jumps of ¼ each on the number line.
0
¼
½
¾
1
1
2
3
After 3 jumps of ¼, we land on ¾. So 3 × ¼ = ¾!
Example 2: 2 × ⅗
Let's make 2 jumps of ⅗ each on this number line.
0
⅕
⅖
⅗
⅘
1
1
2
After 2 jumps of ⅗, we go past 1! 2 × ⅗ = 1⅕ or 6/5.
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use string or ribbon to create physical number lines on the floor - have your child actually jump the fractions!
- Relate to real-life examples like measuring ingredients ("If we need 3 quarter-cups of flour, how much is that total?")
- Make it a game - roll dice for the whole number and fraction, then race to plot it on a number line