Multiplying by a number bigger than 1 makes a product larger, multiplying by a fraction smaller than 1 makes it smaller, and multiplying by exactly 1 leaves it the same. This is the idea of scaling, and fifth graders use it to check an answer before calculating.
On this sheet a child sees ten products such as 7 × 5/4 and circles whether the answer is greater than, less than or equal to the first number, without working it out. Each version has different numbers, and the answer key gives the right choice for every item.
What your child will learn
Compare a factor to 1
Say whether a product grows or shrinks
Predict before calculating
Use fractions as scale factors
Common Core standard: 5.NF.B.5
Worked example
7 × 5/4: 5/4 is greater than 1, so the product is greater than 7.
Common mistake
Thinking multiplication always makes a number bigger.
Helpful hint
Is the second number greater than 1, less than 1, or equal to 1?