Complete Procedure for Dividing Mixed Numbers
The complete procedure for dividing mixed numbers is a Grade 6 math skill in Big Ideas Math Advanced 1, Chapter 2: Fractions and Decimals. Students convert mixed numbers to improper fractions, then multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor (the Keep-Change-Flip method) and simplify the result back to a mixed number if needed.
Key Concepts
To divide mixed numbers: (1) Convert each mixed number to an improper fraction using $a\frac{b}{c} = \frac{ac + b}{c}$; (2) multiply by the reciprocal of the divisor: $\frac{p}{q} \div \frac{r}{s} = \frac{p}{q} \times \frac{s}{r}$; (3) simplify the result; (4) convert back to mixed number form if the result is an improper fraction.
Common Questions
How do you divide mixed numbers in Grade 6?
Step 1: Convert each mixed number to an improper fraction. Step 2: Change division to multiplication and flip the second fraction (take its reciprocal). Step 3: Multiply the fractions. Step 4: Simplify and convert back to a mixed number if needed.
What is the Keep-Change-Flip method for dividing fractions?
Keep the first fraction as is, Change the division sign to multiplication, and Flip the second fraction (use its reciprocal). For example, (3/4) / (2/3) becomes (3/4) x (3/2) = 9/8 = 1 and 1/8.
How do you convert a mixed number to an improper fraction?
Multiply the whole number by the denominator, then add the numerator. Put the result over the original denominator. For example, 2 and 3/4 = (2 x 4 + 3)/4 = 11/4.
Where is this skill taught in Big Ideas Math Advanced 1?
The procedure for dividing mixed numbers is covered in Chapter 2: Fractions and Decimals of Big Ideas Math Advanced 1, the Grade 6 math textbook.