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Dividing Unit Fractions by Whole Numbers | Math with Mr. J

From Math with Mr. J

Dividing Unit Fractions by Whole Numbers | Math with Mr. J
4 min5th6thMath
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Summary

How to divide fractions using the 'keep, change, flip' rule -- multiply by the reciprocal of the second fraction. Mr. J explains why it works, not just the steps.

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All ages

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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal.

  1. What is the reciprocal of a fraction?
  2. Why does dividing by 1/2 make a number bigger?
  3. What are the steps in 'keep, change, flip'?

Quick work-a-long

Words to know: divide, reciprocal, keep change flip

  • Solve 3/4 divided by 1/2.
  • Explain why 2 divided by 1/4 equals 8.