Dividing Fractions Made Simple
Dividing fractions might seem tricky at first, but once you learn the "keep-change-flip" method, you'll be a fraction division pro!
When we divide fractions, we're actually multiplying by the reciprocal of the second fraction. The reciprocal is just flipping the numerator (top number) and denominator (bottom number).
The 3 Simple Steps
1️⃣ Keep the first fraction the same
2️⃣ Change the division sign to multiplication
3️⃣ Flip the second fraction (find its reciprocal)
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Dividing a fraction by a fraction
Let's solve: \(\frac{3}{4} ÷ \frac{2}{5}\)
1️⃣ Keep the first fraction: \(\frac{3}{4}\)
2️⃣ Change ÷ to ×
3️⃣ Flip the second fraction: \(\frac{5}{2}\)
Now multiply: \(\frac{3}{4} × \frac{5}{2} = \frac{15}{8}\)
Final answer: \(\frac{15}{8}\) or \(1\frac{7}{8}\)
Example 2: Dividing a whole number by a fraction
Let's solve: \(6 ÷ \frac{1}{3}\)
Remember: Any whole number can be written as a fraction with denominator 1 (so 6 = \(\frac{6}{1}\))
1️⃣ Write 6 as \(\frac{6}{1}\) and keep it
2️⃣ Change ÷ to ×
3️⃣ Flip \(\frac{1}{3}\) to \(\frac{3}{1}\)
Now multiply: \(\frac{6}{1} × \frac{3}{1} = \frac{18}{1} = 18\)
Final answer: 18 (which makes sense because there are 18 \(\frac{1}{3}\)s in 6!)
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen Math: Use measuring cups to demonstrate fraction division. Ask "How many 1/4 cups are in 1/2 cup?" to show real-world application.
- Reciprocal Song: Make up a simple song about "keep-change-flip" to help the steps stick in your child's memory.
- Practice with Pizza: Use pizza slices to visualize division problems. "If you have 3/4 of a pizza and want to divide it among friends getting 1/8 slices, how many friends can you serve?"