Dividing Fractions
Grade 6 · Math · Fractions, Decimals, and Percents · Massachusetts, USA
Lesson Summary
To divide fractions, flip the second fraction and multiply. This technique is called multiplying by the reciprocal.
Explanation
Dividing by a fraction is the same as multiplying by its reciprocal. The reciprocal of a fraction is that fraction flipped upside down. So dividing 3/4 by 2/5 becomes 3/4 times 5/2, which equals 15/8 or 1 and 7/8. This works because dividing means finding how many groups of one size fit into another. Understanding fraction division helps with splitting things into equal parts and solving measurement problems.
Practice Questions
Q1: Divide 1/2 by 1/4.
Answer: 2, because 1/2 times 4/1 equals 4/2, which simplifies to 2.
Q2: Divide 3/5 by 2/3.
Answer: 9/10, because 3/5 times 3/2 equals 9/10.
Q3: A ribbon is 3/4 of a yard long. You cut it into pieces that are each 1/8 of a yard. How many pieces do you get?
Answer: 6 pieces, because 3/4 divided by 1/8 equals 3/4 times 8/1, which is 24/4, or 6.
People Also Ask
What is Dividing Fractions in Grade 6 Math?+
Dividing Fractions is a lesson in the Fractions, Decimals, and Percents chapter of Grade 6 Math. It is part of the Massachusetts, USA school curriculum and covers key concepts that students need to understand at this level.
What grade level covers Dividing Fractions?+
Dividing Fractions is taught in Grade 6 as part of the Math curriculum in Massachusetts, USA.
How can I help my child with Fractions, Decimals, and Percents in Math?+
Start with the lesson summary and explanation on this page. Practice the questions provided, then use TutorTom for personalized, step-by-step help with Fractions, Decimals, and Percents topics.