Multiplying Rational Expressions

Lesson Procedure:

Print the classroom lesson plan and worksheet questions (see below).

Lesson Excerpt:

I. Introduction

- “In our last lessons, we have been factoring and simplifying rational expressions. Now we are going to begin multiplying rational expressions. Let’s go back a bit and review multiplying rational numbers, because rational numbers and rational expressions have a lot in common.”
- “First, let’s just review what a rational number is. A rational number can be written in fraction form, and the denominator is never 0. Now, let’s take a look at multiplying rational numbers.”
- On Board: (4/5)(1/3)
- “How do we go about multiplying these rational numbers?”
- Student answer- you multiply the numerator times the numerator and denominator times the denominator.
- “Good, so let’s start with the numerators, 4 times 1 equals 4, and 5 times 3 equals 15. My final answer is 4/15. Are there any questions on this?”
- Pause a moment for questions. This is review and should be very familiar to the students. Make a note if any of the students do not understand this material. Any student in this category may need more review.

Continued...