Visualizing Fraction Multiplication with Areas

Visualizing Fraction Multiplication with Areas

Use an area model to explore how two fractions are multiplied. Adjust the model to see how the shaded region represents the product.


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Open-ended question 1

How do the denominators relate to the area of the small rectangle?

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Open-ended question 2

How do the numerators relate to the number of rectangles tiling the shaded rectangle in the area model?

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Open-ended question 3

Rolland says, “Finding products of fractions is easy. Just multiply the numerators together and multiply the denominators together.” Can area models justify Rolland’s claim? Why or why not?

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