Multiplying Multiple Numbers Together
When we multiply three or more numbers, we can do it step by step!
First multiply the first two numbers, then multiply that result by the next number, and keep going until you've multiplied all the numbers. Remember to simplify your fractions along the way to make the math easier!
How to Multiply Multiple Numbers
1️⃣ Convert any mixed numbers to improper fractions
2️⃣ Multiply the numerators together
3️⃣ Multiply the denominators together
4️⃣ Simplify the final answer (convert back to mixed number if needed)
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Multiply 2 × ½ × 1¾
Let's solve this step by step:
- Convert 1¾ to an improper fraction: 7/4
- Now we have: 2/1 × ½ × 7/4
- Multiply numerators: 2 × 1 × 7 = 14
- Multiply denominators: 1 × 2 × 4 = 8
- Simplify 14/8 = 1¾
The final answer is 1¾ or 7/4!
Example 2: Multiply ⅔ × 4 × 1½
Try solving this one yourself first!
- Convert 1½ to an improper fraction: 3/2
- Write 4 as a fraction: 4/1
- Now we have: ⅔ × 4/1 × 3/2
- Can you spot any numbers that can simplify before multiplying?
Here's the solution:
⅔ × 4/1 × 3/2 = (2×4×3)/(3×1×2) = 24/6 = 4
The final answer is 4!
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen Math: Practice with real recipes that need doubling or tripling ingredients - great practical application!
- Simplify First: Teach your child to look for numbers that can simplify before multiplying to make problems easier.
- Step-by-Step: Encourage writing out each step rather than trying to multiply all numbers at once to avoid mistakes.