Dividing Fractions Made Easy
Dividing fractions might seem tricky at first, but once you learn the "keep-change-flip" method, you'll be a fraction division pro!
When we divide fractions, we actually multiply by the reciprocal (the flipped version) of the second fraction. This magical trick makes fraction division much simpler!
The 3-Step Method
1️⃣ Keep the first fraction the same
2️⃣ Change the division sign to multiplication
3️⃣ Flip the second fraction (find its reciprocal)
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Dividing Simple Fractions
Let's solve: \(\frac{3}{4} ÷ \frac{2}{5}\)
Step 1: Keep the first fraction
Step 2 & 3: Change ÷ to × and flip the second fraction
Now multiply: \(\frac{3}{4} × \frac{5}{2} = \frac{15}{8}\)
We can leave this as an improper fraction or convert to mixed number: \(1\frac{7}{8}\)
Example 2: Dividing Mixed Numbers
Let's solve: \(2\frac{1}{3} ÷ 1\frac{1}{2}\)
Step 1: Convert mixed numbers to improper fractions
Now apply keep-change-flip: \(\frac{7}{3} ÷ \frac{3}{2} = \frac{7}{3} × \frac{2}{3}\)
Multiply: \(\frac{7}{3} × \frac{2}{3} = \frac{14}{9}\)
Convert back to mixed number: \(1\frac{5}{9}\)
Parent Tips 🌟
- Kitchen Math: Use measuring cups to demonstrate fraction division practically. "If we have 1½ cups of flour and want to divide it into ½ cup portions, how many can we make?"
- Reciprocal Rhyme: Create a fun rhyme or song to remember "keep-change-flip" like "Keep it, change it, flip it right, multiplying makes dividing light!"
- Real-world Problems: Create word problems using their interests (sports, baking, etc.) to make fraction division more engaging and relevant.