What Does It Mean to Multiply Fractions by Whole Numbers?
When we multiply a unit fraction (like ½ or ⅓) by a whole number, we're really adding that fraction multiple times!
A number line helps us see exactly where each "jump" lands. Imagine hopping along a number line where each hop is the size of your fraction!
How to Multiply Fractions Using Number Lines
1️⃣ Draw your number line from 0 to the whole number you're multiplying by
2️⃣ Divide each whole number segment into equal parts based on your fraction's denominator
3️⃣ Hop along the number line by your fraction the number of times equal to your whole number
Let's Try Some Examples!
Example 1: 3 × ¼
This means "three jumps of one-quarter each"
0
¼
½
¾
1
1
2
3
After 3 jumps of ¼, we land at ¾! So 3 × ¼ = ¾
Example 2: 5 × ⅓
This means "five jumps of one-third each"
0
⅓
⅔
1
1⅓
1⅔
2
1
2
3
4
5
After 5 jumps of ⅓, we land at 1⅔! So 5 × ⅓ = 1⅔
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use real-world examples: "If you eat ¼ of a pizza 3 times, how much pizza did you eat total?" helps connect the concept to everyday life.
- Make it physical: Use a measuring tape or create a giant number line on the floor with masking tape for kids to jump along.
- Start simple: Begin with fractions that have small denominators (½, ⅓, ¼) before moving to more complex fractions.