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Fraction concepts are taken up a level in 5th grade and many of the topics are very abstract and difficult for students to understand. Multiplying fractions by a whole number doesn’t need to be one of these difficult concepts! By using the CRA (Concrete-Representative-Abstract) framework your students will link what they already know about multiplication to the multiplication of fractions and will be successful in no time at all!
Concrete Multiplying Fractions by a Whole Number
Go ahead and get out your pattern blocks. They are the PERFECT fraction representation. Let the hexagon represent a whole and allow your students to figure out which blocks represent 1/3 (rhombus), 1/2 (trapezoid) and 1/6 (triangles). Once your students are all set with their blocks, they are ready to begin! Don’t have fraction blocks handy? Fraction circles would work just as well!
**This PICTURE is not a concrete model, but if you are creating this model out of fraction tiles, your students are working at the concrete level! **
Representative Multiplying Fractions by a Whole Number
Abstract Multiplying Fractions by a Whole Number
I have created a set of playing cards that includes multiplication equations, visual models, repeated addition and the resulting products. Your students can play so many traditional card games with this deck of cards – and I have included the instructions for 5 games to get you started! This resource is PERFECT for exploring the link between repeated addition and fraction multiplication. Click HERE to check it out!