Flipping for Fractions: Mastering Division!

Mathematics Grades 7th Grade 3:36 Video
Print Lesson Plan Watch Video

Lesson Description

Learn how to divide fractions and express the answer as a mixed number. We'll explore the concept of reciprocals and discover why dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its inverse.

Video Resource

Dividing fractions example 2 | Fractions | Pre-Algebra | Khan Academy

Khan Academy

Duration: 3:36
Watch on YouTube

Key Concepts

  • Dividing fractions is equivalent to multiplying by the reciprocal.
  • The reciprocal of a fraction is found by swapping the numerator and denominator.
  • Improper fractions can be converted to mixed numbers.

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to divide fractions by multiplying by the reciprocal of the divisor.
  • Students will be able to convert improper fractions to mixed numbers and express the answer in simplest form.
  • Students will be able to explain why dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by reviewing the concept of fractions and division. Ask students if they remember how to multiply fractions. Briefly discuss the difference between proper and improper fractions, and mixed numbers.
  • Video Presentation (10 mins)
    Play the Khan Academy video "Dividing fractions example 2 | Fractions | Pre-Algebra | Khan Academy". Instruct students to take notes on the steps involved in dividing fractions and converting improper fractions to mixed numbers.
  • Guided Practice (15 mins)
    Work through example problems on the board, demonstrating the process of dividing fractions by multiplying by the reciprocal. Emphasize the importance of simplifying fractions and converting improper fractions to mixed numbers. Have students work along with you on these examples. Include one or two problems where the answer is a whole number.
  • Independent Practice (15 mins)
    Provide students with a worksheet containing practice problems on dividing fractions. Encourage them to work independently and ask questions if they get stuck. Circulate the room to provide support and guidance.
  • Wrap-up and Discussion (5 mins)
    Review the key concepts covered in the lesson. Answer any remaining questions students may have. Preview the next lesson on dividing fractions word problems.

Interactive Exercises

  • Fraction Frenzy Game
    Create a game where students are presented with division problems and must quickly identify the correct reciprocal and solve the problem. This could be done individually or in teams.
  • Mixed Number Mania
    Divide students into groups and give each group a set of improper fractions. The group that can correctly convert all improper fractions to mixed numbers the fastest wins.

Discussion Questions

  • Why does multiplying by the reciprocal work when dividing fractions?
  • Can you think of real-world scenarios where you might need to divide fractions?
  • What are some common mistakes to avoid when dividing fractions?

Skills Developed

  • Procedural fluency in dividing fractions
  • Conceptual understanding of reciprocals and their relationship to division
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Critical thinking skills

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

What is the first step in dividing two fractions?

Correct Answer: Flip the second fraction and multiply

Question 2:

What is the reciprocal of 3/4?

Correct Answer: 4/3

Question 3:

2/5 รท 1/3 is the same as:

Correct Answer: 2/5 x 3/1

Question 4:

What is 7/5 expressed as a mixed number?

Correct Answer: 1 2/5

Question 5:

Dividing by 1/2 is the same as multiplying by what number?

Correct Answer: 2

Question 6:

What is the value of 5/8 divided by 1/4?

Correct Answer: 5/2

Question 7:

What does 'reciprocal' mean in the context of fraction division?

Correct Answer: The inverse of a fraction (numerator and denominator swapped)

Question 8:

What is 1 1/2 divided by 1/4?

Correct Answer: 6

Question 9:

Which of the following statements about dividing fractions is true?

Correct Answer: You flip the second fraction and multiply.

Question 10:

When converting an improper fraction to a mixed number, what does the remainder become?

Correct Answer: The new numerator

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 5/3 is _______.

Correct Answer: 3/5

Question 3:

When dividing fractions, you _______ the second fraction before multiplying.

Correct Answer: flip

Question 4:

An improper fraction has a numerator that is _______ than or equal to the denominator.

Correct Answer: greater

Question 5:

A _______ number is a whole number and a fraction combined.

Correct Answer: mixed

Question 6:

6/4 as a mixed number is _______.

Correct Answer: 1 1/2

Question 7:

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

Correct Answer: multiplying

Question 8:

The denominator in a fraction tells you how many _______ the whole is divided into.

Correct Answer: parts

Question 9:

When simplifying an improper fraction to a mixed number, the denominator remains the _______.

Correct Answer: same

Question 10:

If you divide 2 by 1/2, the answer is _______.

Correct Answer: 4

Educational Standards

7.N.2.5:Model and solve problems using rational numbers involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and positive integer exponents. 7.N.1.1:Compare and order rational numbers expressed in various forms using the symbols '<', '>', and '='.

Teaching Materials

Download ready-to-use materials for this lesson:

Student Worksheet Classroom Slides Assessment Quiz
Add to Google Classroom

User Actions

Sign in to save this lesson plan to your favorites.

Sign In

Share This Lesson

Related Lesson Plans