How to Divide Fractions Using Cancellation and Keep Change Flip

The Organic Chemistry Tutor

This math tutorial provides a clear, step-by-step demonstration of how to divide fractions using the 'Keep, Change, Flip' algorithm combined with the cancellation method (simplifying before multiplying). The video guides viewers through four examples of increasing complexity, explicitly showing how to factor numbers to identify common terms that can be canceled out to simplify the problem before calculating the final answer. The content focuses on procedural fluency in arithmetic, specifically targeting the 6th-grade standard of dividing fractions by fractions. It introduces the strategy of breaking larger numbers into factors (e.g., rewriting 16 as 8 x 2) to make mental math easier and reduce the likelihood of calculation errors. This approach helps students understand the relationship between numerators and denominators across different fractions when multiplying. For educators, this video serves as an excellent direct instruction tool or review resource. It effectively models mathematical thinking by vocalizing the decision-making process during simplification. The video structure, which includes a 'pause and try' segment, allows it to be used interactively in the classroom for guided practice or independent study stations to reinforce fraction operations.