Communications of Mathematical Education (한국수학교육학회지시리즈E:수학교육논문집)
- Volume 19 Issue 4 Serial No. 24
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- Pages.715-731
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- 2005
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- 1226-6663(pISSN)
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- 2287-9935(eISSN)
A Study on Operations with Fractions Through Analogy
유추를 통한 분수 연산에 관한 연구
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Kim Yong Tae
(Gwangju National University of Education) ;
- Shin Bong Sook (Siheung Elementary School) ;
- Choi Dae Uk (Elementary School affiliated to Gwangju National University of Education) ;
- Lee Soon Hee (Poongam Elementary School)
- Published : 2005.11.01
Abstract
There are five contexts of division algorithm of fractions such as measurement division, determination of a unit rate, reduction of the quantities in the same measure, division as the inverse of multiplication and analogy with multiplication algorithm of fractions. The division algorithm, however, should be taught by 'dividing by using reciprocals' via 'measurement division' because dividing a fraction by a fraction results in 'multiplying the dividend by the reciprocal of the divisor'. If a fraction is divided by a large fraction, then we can teach the division algorithm of fractions by analogy with 'dividing by using reciprocals'. To achieve the teaching-learning methods above in elementary school, it is essential for children to use the maniplatives. As Piaget has suggested, Cuisenaire color rods is the most efficient maniplative for teaching fractions. The instruction, therefore, of division algorithm of fractions should be focused on 'dividing by using reciprocals' via 'measurement division' using Cuisenaire color rods through analogy if necessary.