How to Divide a Whole Number by a Fraction | Math with Mr. J
From Math with Mr. J
5 min5th6thMath
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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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
Dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal.
- What is the reciprocal of a fraction?
- Why does dividing by 1/2 make a number bigger?
- 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.