Lesson 7 - Dividing Fractions

  


pencilbg.gif (3028 bytes)

Don't askWhen was the last time your parents said you couldn't do something and you asked why?   Then, their response was, "Don't ask why!"  Well, that is the case with dividing fractions. 

So, I say, "WHEN DIVIDING FRACTIONS DON'T ASK WHY, FLIP THE SECOND AND MULTIPLE."

That's right, never divide fractions, simply multiple by the reciprocal. 
       


For example:

  frac_dv1.gif (1076 bytes)
  

When dividing fractions
don't ask why,
flip the second & multiple.

  frac_dv2.gif (1224 bytes)
  		  

Yes, multiple by the reciprocal.


Another example:

 frac_dv3.gif (1105 bytes)
  
Now, remember to flip the second. . . This time, look for common factors in the numerator and denominator.  One 3 in 3 and three 3s in 9.  Also, one four in 4 and four 4s in 16.

Last, multiply across and simplify. 
  
fract_dv5.gif (1155 bytes)frac_dv4.gif (1611 bytes)


  fract_dv6.gif (1285 bytes)
  Need some practice?  

  

Extension Activities - Dividing Fractions

  

© 2002 Clovis Unified School District - CAL Online, All rights reserved.