Flipping for Fractions: Mastering Division

Mathematics Grades 7th Grade 1:17 Video
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Lesson Description

Learn how to divide fractions with ease by understanding the concept of reciprocals. This lesson provides a clear example and step-by-step guide to make fraction division super clear!

Video Resource

Dividing fractions example | Fractions | Pre-Algebra | Khan Academy

Khan Academy

Duration: 1:17
Watch on YouTube

Key Concepts

  • Fractions
  • Division
  • Reciprocal
  • Multiplication of Fractions

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to define and identify the reciprocal of a fraction.
  • Students will be able to divide two fractions by multiplying by the reciprocal of the second fraction.
  • Students will be able to simplify the resulting fraction after multiplication.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by reviewing what a fraction represents and briefly discuss multiplication of fractions. Ask students if they remember what the 'reciprocal' of a number is. Prompt them to think about how division and multiplication are related.
  • Video Explanation (7 mins)
    Play the Khan Academy video 'Dividing fractions example'. Encourage students to follow along and take notes. Pause the video at key points to emphasize the steps involved in finding the reciprocal and multiplying.
  • Guided Practice (10 mins)
    Work through 2-3 similar examples on the board, guiding students through each step. Start with simpler fractions and gradually increase the complexity. For example: 1/2 ÷ 1/4, 3/4 ÷ 2/3, 5/8 ÷ 1/2.
  • Independent Practice (10 mins)
    Provide students with a worksheet containing 5-7 division of fraction problems. Allow them to work independently or in pairs. Circulate the room to provide assistance as needed.
  • Wrap-up and Review (3 mins)
    Review the key steps for dividing fractions: find the reciprocal of the second fraction and multiply. Answer any remaining questions and preview the next lesson.

Interactive Exercises

  • Fraction Frenzy Game
    Use a whiteboard or online tool to create a quick 'Fraction Frenzy' game where students have to quickly find the reciprocal of given fractions. Award points for speed and accuracy.
  • Think-Pair-Share
    Pose a challenging fraction division problem. Have students individually attempt the problem, then pair with a partner to discuss their solution. Finally, share solutions with the class.

Discussion Questions

  • What is the reciprocal of a fraction, and why is it important when dividing fractions?
  • How is dividing fractions similar to multiplying fractions?
  • Can you think of a real-world situation where you might need to divide fractions?

Skills Developed

  • Procedural fluency in dividing fractions
  • Conceptual understanding of reciprocals
  • Problem-solving skills

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

What is the reciprocal of 3/4?

Correct Answer: 4/3

Question 2:

When dividing fractions, you multiply by the ______ of the second fraction.

Correct Answer: reciprocal

Question 3:

What is 1/2 divided by 1/4?

Correct Answer: 2

Question 4:

What is 2/5 divided by 7/3?

Correct Answer: 6/35

Question 5:

What is the first step in dividing 5/6 by 2/3?

Correct Answer: Find the reciprocal of 2/3

Question 6:

What is the reciprocal of 5/1?

Correct Answer: 1/5

Question 7:

If you are dividing by a fraction less than 1, will your answer be larger or smaller than the original number?

Correct Answer: Larger

Question 8:

2/3 ÷ 1/5 = ?

Correct Answer: 10/3

Question 9:

Which is the same as 3/8 divided by 1/2?

Correct Answer: 3/8 x 2/1

Question 10:

What does the word reciprocal mean?

Correct Answer: The inverse

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

To divide fractions, you multiply by the _______ of the second fraction.

Correct Answer: reciprocal

Question 2:

The reciprocal of 5/8 is _______.

Correct Answer: 8/5

Question 3:

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

Correct Answer: reciprocal

Question 4:

3/4 divided by 1/2 is equal to _______.

Correct Answer: 6/4

Question 5:

When dividing fractions, you _______ the second fraction.

Correct Answer: flip

Question 6:

The opposite of dividing a fraction is _______ it's reciprocal.

Correct Answer: multiplying

Question 7:

5/9 ÷ 2/7 is the same as 5/9 x _______

Correct Answer: 7/2

Question 8:

Before you divide you should always find the _______.

Correct Answer: reciprocal

Question 9:

If you are dividing 2/3 by 4/5, your first step is to flip _______

Correct Answer: 4/5

Question 10:

Division is the opposite of _______.

Correct Answer: multiplication

Educational Standards

7.N.2:[Standard] Calculate with rational numbers, with and without positive integer exponents, to model and solve mathematical problems. 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:[Standard] Read, write, represent, and compare rational numbers, expressed as integers, fractions, and decimals. Explain and apply the concept of absolute value.

Teaching Materials

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