1. Rectangle Multiplication
This applet uses an area model to help students to
visualize the multiplication of fractions.
Reviewed by Katy and Megan.

2. How the applet works…
• This applet allows students to multiply both proper and
improper fractions using a rectangular array. There are
two modes of use: Show Me and Test Me.
– In Show Me mode, students enter fractions into the array and the
applet produces the corresponding number sentence.
– In Test Me mode, the computer produces a number sentence and
students must use the array to create the corresponding fractions.
• Each side of the array is color coded. One side is red, the
other is blue. The product of the two appears as purple, an
overlap of these two colors. This color coding students see
where each fraction is represented in the array.

3. Analysis
Strengths Weaknesses
•Color coding provides a strong •The applet is functional, but it’s
visual representation of what it not exciting. Students may not be
means to multiply fractions. enthusiastic about using it.
•Connects the visual representation •There is no way to track what
to the corresponding number students are working on, although
sentence. you could hold them responsible by
•Allows work with both proper and asking them to draw the arrays and
improper fractions. number sentences that they create.
•Simple design makes it very •This applet requires an internet
straightforward to use. connection on a computer with a
java-enabled browser.

4. Evaluation of Applet
• The “Rectangle Multiplication” applet presents a clear visual
representation of a concept that can be really confusing.
Providing students with an opportunity to use this applet while
solving problem based tasks can help build a strong
understanding of what it means to multiply fractions.
• Because the applet is totally decontextualized, it should only be
used in conjunction with meaningful tasks.
• Use of the applet requires little written or oral language.
Additionally, the instructions are available in English, Spanish,
French, and Chinese. These features support English language
learners as well as students with low reading comprehension
skills.

5. A Problem-Based Task
• Task: Create a story problem that requires the multiplication of
fractions. Solve it using the “Rectangle Multiplication” tool, and
print the page that shows your array. Be prepared to connect the
elements of your problem to their representation in the array.
• Connection to the standards and/or big ideas:
– CCSS.Math.Content.5.NF.B.4b Find the area of a rectangle with fractional side
lengths by tiling it with unit squares of the appropriate unit fraction side lengths,
and show that the area is the same as would be found by multiplying the side
lengths. Multiply fractional side lengths to find areas of rectangles, and represent
fraction products as rectangular areas.
– CCSS.Math.Content.5.NF.B.6 Solve real world problems involving multiplication
of fractions and mixed numbers, e.g., by using visual fraction models or equations
to represent the problem.

6. Questions to Ask to Assess and
Advance Student Thinking
• Launch (Task Set-Up):
– Can you think of a real life situation that requires the
multiplication of fractions?
• Explore (During Task Implementation):
– How could you represent such a situation using this array?
• Summarize (As students share findings, strategies,
reasoning, etc.):
– Where is each element of your story problem represented in your
array?
– What do the shaded parts represent?
– Where can we see your answer?