Stage 3 · Fractions & Decimals
3.4.3 Cancel First, Then Multiply
3.4 Multiplying and Dividing Fractions: A Part of a Part, and Sharing in Reverse
Point 3 of 5
3.4.3 Cancel First, Then Multiply
Core ideaBefore multiplying, cancel common factors across the top and bottom so the numbers shrink — easier work and fewer mistakes.
Module goal. Use area and the picture of "a part of a part" to understand fraction multiplication, use "equal sharing" for division, and master canceling and reciprocals.