Fractions and area seem like two separate concepts that may never cross paths. However, by combining the two, students can gain a better understanding of both concepts. Teaching students to multiply fractions to find the area is an essential skill that helps them in mathematics and beyond. In this article, we will discuss some activities that can help students master the concept of multiplying fractions to find area.
1. Fraction Pizzas
Fraction pizzas are an excellent way to introduce students to the idea of multiplying fractions to find area. To do this, students need to divide a circle into equal parts that represent the different parts of the pizza. For example, if the pizza is divided into eight slices, each slice represents one-eighth of the pizza. Students then multiply the fraction of the pizza they want to colour or fill by the total area of the pizza to find the fraction of the pizza they need to shade in.
2. Draw and Measure
Another fun activity to teach students about fractions and area is to have them draw their own shapes and measure them. For instance, have your students draw a rectangle or a square on graph paper. They can then measure the sides and find the area by multiplying the length by the width. Next, they can divide the shape up into different sections and fill it with different colours. This way, they can practice multiplying fractions to find the area of the different sections.
3. Real-World Examples
A great way to engage the students and make them understand how multiplying fractions can help them find the area is by using real-world examples. For example, students can calculate the area of a basketball court. They can then multiply the fraction of the court that is a three-point line or a free-throw area, by the total area of the court to find the area of those parts.
4. Virtual Manipulatives
Many online tools, such as virtual manipulatives, teach students how to multiply fractions to find the area. These tools enable students to manipulate shapes and see how they can divide them into equivalent fractional parts. They can then calculate the areas of these parts by multiplying the length and height of each section and adding the results together.
In conclusion, teaching students how to multiply fractions to find the area is a vital skill for anyone to learn. By using real-world examples, virtual manipulatives, and drawing and measuring activities, educators can engage their students and make them more comfortable with the concept. These activities will help students understand not only how to multiply fractions but also how to use the concept in everyday life.
