Mastering Fraction Multiplication: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mathematics Grades 7th Grade 2:26 Video
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Lesson Description

Learn how to multiply fractions and simplify your answers with this easy-to-follow lesson. We'll cover multiplying numerators and denominators and simplifying fractions before and after multiplication.

Video Resource

Multiplying two fractions: example | Fractions | Pre-Algebra | Khan Academy

Khan Academy

Duration: 2:26
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Key Concepts

  • Multiplying fractions involves multiplying the numerators together and the denominators together.
  • Simplifying fractions means reducing them to their lowest terms by dividing the numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor.
  • Simplification can be done before or after multiplying fractions.

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to multiply two fractions correctly.
  • Students will be able to simplify fractions to their lowest terms.
  • Students will be able to simplify fractions before or after multiplication.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by reviewing what fractions are and their components (numerator and denominator). Briefly discuss equivalent fractions and the concept of simplifying fractions.
  • Video Viewing (10 mins)
    Play the Khan Academy video 'Multiplying two fractions: example' (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTKMK1ZGLuk). Encourage students to take notes on the steps involved in multiplying fractions and simplifying the result.
  • Guided Practice (15 mins)
    Work through several example problems together on the board, demonstrating the multiplication process and simplifying fractions both before and after multiplication. Emphasize the importance of finding common factors to simplify.
  • Independent Practice (15 mins)
    Provide students with a set of practice problems to solve individually. Circulate the room to provide assistance and answer questions.
  • Review and Wrap-up (5 mins)
    Review the key concepts and address any remaining questions. Preview the next lesson on multiplying negative and positive fractions.

Interactive Exercises

  • Fraction Frenzy Game
    Use an online fraction game that allows students to practice multiplying and simplifying fractions in a fun, interactive way. Examples: Math Playground Fraction Games.
  • Simplify This Challenge
    Present students with a set of multiplied fractions that need to be simplified. The student who simplifies the most fractions correctly in a set time wins.

Discussion Questions

  • Why is it important to simplify fractions?
  • Is it always easier to simplify before or after multiplying fractions? Why or why not?
  • Can you think of a real-world situation where you might need to multiply fractions?

Skills Developed

  • Multiplication of fractions
  • Simplification of fractions
  • Problem-solving
  • Critical thinking

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

What is 2/5 multiplied by 1/3?

Correct Answer: 2/15

Question 2:

When multiplying fractions, what do you multiply?

Correct Answer: Numerators and denominators separately

Question 3:

What is the simplified form of 4/12?

Correct Answer: 1/3

Question 4:

Which of the following is equivalent to 6/8?

Correct Answer: 3/4

Question 5:

What is 3/4 multiplied by 2/6?

Correct Answer: 6/24

Question 6:

Which of the following is the correct way to simplify fractions?

Correct Answer: Divide both numerator and denominator by the same number

Question 7:

What is the product of 1/2 and 4/5?

Correct Answer: 4/10

Question 8:

Simplify 8/16. What is the simplest form?

Correct Answer: 1/2

Question 9:

Why do we simplify fractions?

Correct Answer: To make them easier to understand

Question 10:

What is 7/8 multiplied by 1/2?

Correct Answer: 7/16

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

When multiplying fractions, you multiply the ___________ to get the new numerator.

Correct Answer: numerators

Question 2:

To simplify a fraction, you divide both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common ___________.

Correct Answer: factor

Question 3:

The simplified form of 9/12 is ___________.

Correct Answer: 3/4

Question 4:

When multiplying 1/4 by 2/3, the answer before simplifying is ___________.

Correct Answer: 2/12

Question 5:

Multiplying 3/5 by 1/2 gives you ___________.

Correct Answer: 3/10

Question 6:

Simplifying fractions means reducing them to their ___________ terms.

Correct Answer: lowest

Question 7:

The denominator of the product of two fractions is found by multiplying the two ___________.

Correct Answer: denominators

Question 8:

2/7 multiplied by 3/4 is ___________.

Correct Answer: 6/28

Question 9:

10/20 simplified is ___________.

Correct Answer: 1/2

Question 10:

The process of making a fraction simpler is called ___________.

Correct Answer: simplifying

Educational Standards

7.N.2.3:[Objective] Multiply and divide integers in a variety of situations; use efficient and generalizable procedures, including standard algorithms. 7.N.1.2:[Objective] Recognize and generate equivalent representations of rational numbers, including equivalent fractions. 7.N.2.5:[Objective] Model and solve problems using rational numbers involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and positive integer exponents.

Teaching Materials

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