Multiplying Two Fractions Word Problems: Rectangle Area
Use overlapping partitions to teach area with two fractional side lengths.
Teaching notes for parents and teachers
How to teach it
Divide a unit square in both directions and shade the overlap. Extend the model when a side is longer than one unit.
Example to work through together
Use the model below as you explain the example. Have your student point to the quantities as you discuss them.
2/3 × 3/4 = 6/12 = 1/2 square foot
Each small cell is 1/3 foot tall and 1/4 foot wide, so twelve equal-area cells cover one square foot. The shaded rectangle contains six cells. The unshaded cells are part of the reference square, not part of the field.
Ask your student
What fraction of a square foot is one small region?
If your student needs help
If the student counts only one set of partitions, trace both directions on the grid.
Make a practice set
Select the worksheet, answer key, or both. When both are selected, the answer key prints after the questions. Keep it separate if you want your student to work independently.
After your student finishes
Have the child explain one cell in the grid before checking the product. If a length exceeds one foot, extend the drawing past the reference square. If the arithmetic is correct, check the square-foot unit and compare equivalent forms of the answer.
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More about multiplication · Grade 5 worksheets
Grade 5 selected skill connection: 5.NF.B.4.b; 5.NF.B.6 (rectangle area with both sides written as fractions). See the Common Core standards for this grade. This worksheet does not cover every requirement in the standard.