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Year 5 - Maths

Solve problems involving multiplying proper fractions by whole numbers

Multiply a proper fraction by a whole number

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will explain the relationship between repeated addition of a proper fraction and multiplication of fractions with both unit and not-unit fractions. They will multiply a proper fraction by a whole number.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to solve problems involving multiplying proper fractions by whole numbers.

Key Notes

  • Use the language of unitising '__ groups of __ is equal to __'
  • The numerator of the fraction is multiplied by the whole number and the denominator remains the same.
  • If the product is an improper fraction you can convert it to a mixed number.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Numerator: A numerator is the top number in a fraction. It shows how many parts we have.
  • Denominator: A denominator is the bottom number in a fraction. It shows how many parts a whole has been divided into.
  • Proper fraction: A proper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is less than the denominator.
  • Improper fraction: An improper fraction is a fraction where the numerator is greater than the denominator.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Multiplying a fraction by a larger whole number means the product will be larger.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

Use the language of unitising '__ groups of __ is equal to __'. The numerator of the fraction is multiplied by the whole number and the denominator remains the same.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Numerator'

A numerator is the top number in a fraction. It shows how many parts we have. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Multiplying a fraction by a larger whole number means the product will be larger. Correction: In these examples, encourage children to see the whole number as a multiplier. Relate this back to representations where the fraction is shown to represent an area or a quantity. This should help to identify the fraction's magnitude when reasoning.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 Maths guide library.