Divide a fraction by another fraction with unlike denominator using a visual model in this activity.
[i]Answer these open ended questions on your own or with others to form deeper math connections.[/i]
When both fractions have a common denominator, does it make dividing fractions easier or more difficult? Explain.
Jose noticed that [math]\frac{5}{8}\div\frac{3}{8}[/math] is the same as [math]5\div3[/math]. However, he isn't sure this strategy will work with [math]\frac{5}{8}\div\frac{3}{5}[/math]. Will his strategy work? If so, explain why. If not, describe what he can do to find the quotient.
Mary noticed that [math]\frac{4}{15}\div\frac{2}{3}[/math] can be solved by dividing straight across [math]\left(\frac{4\div2}{15\div3}\right)[/math]. Is this true for all fraction division? Explain.