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In this activity, we will be learning how to multiply fractions using diagrams. 

 

Look at this diagram, which shows two fifths of a rectangle shaded.

 

Fraction rectangle 2/5

 

Let's multiply two fifths by 2.

This will give two lots of two fifths.

 

Faction statement

 

This gives four fifths shaded as shown.

 

Fraction rectangle 4/5

 

fraction statement

 

Now let's try an example question. 

 

Example

Multiply two fifths by 3.

 

Answer

This will be three lots of two fifths.

 

fraction statement

 

This gives six fifths shaded as shown.

 

Fraction rectangle   Fraction rectangle

 

So we can write the following fraction equation to show our working:

 

fraction statement

 

Now it's your turn to try some questions like these. 

10 questions