enVision Mathematics Grade 4, Topic 10: Multiply Fractions by Whole Numbers
In this unit, your child multiplies a fraction by a whole number, such as 4 × 2/3, by thinking of it as 4 groups of 2/3. They connect it to adding the same fraction again and again, and solve story problems about recipes, time, and distance. It follows the unit on adding fractions and leads into decimals.
By Robert “Bobby” BarnettMath teacher, parent, and founder of Bobby’s Math Club
What is my child learning in Topic 10?
- Multiplying a fraction by a whole number, like 4 × 2/3 = 8/3, as equal groups, and solving story problems with it. Learn more: Multiplying a fraction by a whole number
Sample questions to try together
These are real questions from our practice. Tap the speaker to hear one read aloud, or the light bulb for a hint, and talk about the answer together.
Question 1 of 3
What is 7 × 1/10?
- 7/70
- 1/70
- 7/10
How you can help
- Scoop rice or oats with a 1/4 cup. After 3 scoops, ask how much is in the bowl, 3 × 1/4 = 3/4 cup, then do 6 scoops and talk about why that is 6/4, or 1 1/2 cups.
- Talk about chores in fractions of an hour. If each of 3 chores takes 1/4 hour, ask how long all three take, then connect 3/4 hour to 45 minutes.
- Lay 5 lengths of 1/4 inch along a ruler together, and read the total. Link it to 5 × 1/4 = 5/4 = 1 1/4 inches.
Where kids can get stuck
- Multiplying the denominator too, so 3 × 2/5 becomes 6/15 instead of 6/5.
- Adding 5 and 3/8 in a story that calls for 5 groups of 3/8.
- Getting 15/8 as an answer without seeing that it is almost 2, or 1 7/8.
Practice makes perfect
Bobby's Math Club has practice problems that adapt to your child’s level, each with a detailed explanation and an easy-to-follow video, so your child can build confidence in these skills one step at a time.
Words your child will hear
- product
- The answer to a multiplication problem.
- multiple
- The product of a number and a whole number, like 6, 12, and 18 for the number 6.
- unit fraction
- A fraction with 1 as its numerator, like 1/4 or 1/8.
- numerator
- The top number of a fraction, telling how many equal parts are counted.
- denominator
- The bottom number of a fraction, telling how many equal parts make one whole.
- mixed number
- A whole number and a fraction together, like 2 1/4.
- fraction greater than 1
- A fraction whose numerator is larger than its denominator, like 7/4.
Ready to build your child’s confidence with multiplying fractions?
In Bobby's Math Club, your child practices these skills at just the right level, with a hint when they need one, a clear explanation after every question, and kid-friendly videos. Unlimited practice is free.
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Written by Robert “Bobby” Barnett
Bobby is an award-winning math teacher, the author of Meet Every Learner’s Needs, and the father of two elementary-school math learners. He uses Bobby’s Math Club with his own kids a few times every week. Learn more or contact Bobby.
Which math standards does enVision Mathematics Grade 4 Topic 10 cover?
enVision Mathematics Grade 4 Topic 10 covers this math standard. Each one links to what it means, sample questions, and teaching strategies.
- 4.NF.B.4: Multiply a fraction by a whole number, like 2 × 3/4.
For teachers: Unit names and order vary between editions and districts, so your school’s own materials have the exact sequence. Learn how Bobby's Math Club can help your students grow.