Many middle school math teachers often wonder about dealing with questions like ‘how to divide fractions using area models’ ‘how can one refresh their memory on fractions,” and so much more. In this article, we will learn about using fractions using area models.
A visual tool such as an area model to help students understand dividing with fractions will make the process more concrete. A solid foundation will build a more profound understanding and eventually allow students to make generalizations, just as they can when dividing whole numbers.
Let’s look at dividing 3/4/2.
Just as with whole numbers, dividing by 2 means that we need to divide the model into 2 equal groups. We can do this by dividing the model in half horizontally.
The quotient will be made up of a numerator and denominator. Just as with other fractions, the denominator will represent the total number of parts in the whole and the numerator will represent the number of parts being considered.
The numerator in the quotient is represented by the number of shaded parts in one group. In this case, our numerator is 3.
The denominator in the quotient is represented by the total number of parts. In this case, our denominator is 8.
3/4/2 = 3/8
Dividing fractions using area models allows students to understand why the numerator in the quotient does not change from the original fraction, why the denominator in the quotient is twice as large as in the original fraction, and why the quotient represents a smaller amount of the whole than the original fraction.
Also read: 130 Math Word Problems To Challenge Students Grades 1 to 8
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Frequently Asked Questions On Dividing Fractions Using Area Models:
What is an area model?
As the name suggests, the area model refers to using a rectangular model to teach students division and multiplication problems.
What does the area model mean in fractions?
Using an area model is a great way to learn fractions. It is easy to learn dividing fractions using area models, and it shows a model that can be split into equal parts.
Can area models be used for multiplication also?
Yes! You can learn multiplication using area models.
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