Whoohoo! No need to find common denominators when multiplying fractions! Just multiply straight across - numerator x numerator and denominator x denominator! Remember though, that WHOLE numbers can be viewed as a fraction with a denominator or 1!
example #1:
1/2 x 3/4 = ____
For the above problem...
Numerator x Numerator: 1 x 3 = 3
Denominator x Denominator: 2 x 4= 8
so 1/2 x 3/4 = 3/8
Example #2 (with whole number):
1/3 x 2 = _____
well, 2 is the same as 2/1 so NOW we can multiply!!!
1/3 x 2/1 = 2/3
Some more tidbits for estimation...
multiplying one factor by another factor SMALLER than 1 will give you a product smaller than that the "original" factor
"original" factor x Factor smaller than 1 = value less than original factor
Examples:
10 x 1/2 = 5
10 x 1/5 = 2
10 x 1/3 = 3.33
