What Are Multiples of Fractions?
When we talk about multiples of fractions, we mean taking a fraction and multiplying it by whole numbers like 2, 3, 4, and so on.
It's like having pieces of a pizza and then getting more of those same-sized pieces! For example, if you have 1/4 of a pizza and you get 3 times as much, you'd have 3/4 of the pizza.
How to Find Multiples of Fractions
1️⃣ Keep the denominator the same (the bottom number)
2️⃣ Multiply the numerator (the top number) by the whole number
3️⃣ Simplify if possible (make the fraction as small as it can be)
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Visualizing Fraction Multiples
Let's find 3 × 1/4 using a pizza:
1/4 of a pizza
Now let's multiply by 3:
3 × 1/4 = 3/4
Let's try 4 × 2/5:
\[ 4 \times \frac{2}{5} = \frac{4 \times 2}{5} = \frac{8}{5} = 1\frac{3}{5} \]
We have 4 groups of 2/5, making 8/5 or 1 whole and 3/5 more!
Example 2: Word Problem
Sarah drinks 2/3 cup of milk each morning. How much milk does she drink in 5 days?
We need to find 5 × 2/3:
\[ 5 \times \frac{2}{3} = \frac{5 \times 2}{3} = \frac{10}{3} = 3\frac{1}{3} \]
Sarah drinks 3 and 1/3 cups of milk in 5 days!
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use real objects: Cut paper plates into fractions or use measuring cups to show fraction multiplication in action.
- Relate to money: Explain that 3 × 1/4 is like having 3 quarters, which makes 75 cents or 3/4 of a dollar.
- Practice with recipes: Double or triple recipe measurements to show practical uses of fraction multiplication.