"Of" Means Multiply in Math

🎯 What Will We Learn Today?

In the world of fractions, the word "of" is a secret code for multiplication! Once you learn this trick, word problems become so much easier to solve.

📚 The Secret Code

"Of" translates to multiply（×）!

"½ of 12" → ½ × 12

"¾ of 20" → ¾ × 20

"2/3 of 9" → 2/3 × 9

Every time you see "of" between a fraction and a whole number, just replace it with a multiplication sign!

🎮 Step-by-Step Examples

Example 1: 1/2 of 10

Spot the word "of" → turn it into ×

1/2 × 10

Write the whole number as a fraction: 10 = 10/1

Numerators: 1 × 10 = 10, Denominators: 2 × 1 = 2

10/2 = 5

So 1/2 of 10 = 5 — half of 10 is 5! Makes sense!

Example 2: 3/4 of 20

3/4 × 20 = (3 × 20) / (4 × 1) = 60/4 = 15

💡 Real-World Applications

"2/3 of the class rode the bus" → 2/3 × number of students

"I ate 3/8 of the pizza" → 3/8 × the whole pizza

"5/6 of my homework is done" → 5/6 × total problems

"1/4 off the price" → save 1/4 × original price

📝 Practice Problems

1/4 of 16 = ?

2/5 of 25 = ?

3/8 of 24 = ?

1/3 of 18 = ?

Why is it helpful to translate "of" into "×" in word problems?

🎮 Play a Game!

Practice fractions with Dirt Bike Fractions!