Lesson 4: Multiplying & Dividing Rational Expressions

• How do we multiply rational expressions?
• How do we divide rational expressions?
• What do we do with the denominators?
• How is this similar to multiplying fractions?

Multiply, divide, reciprocal, simplify, numerator, denominator

CCSS.MATH.9.A.APR.D.6

Description: Students multiply rational expressions by multiplying numerators and denominators, then simplifying. They divide by multiplying by the reciprocal. The process parallels multiplying and dividing fractions. Purpose: To develop procedural fluency in rational expression multiplication and division. DOK Level: 2-3 (Application)

• Connection to fractions: Use familiar procedures
• For struggling learners: Multiply/divide simple expressions without factoring first
• For advanced learners: Factor before multiplying/dividing to simplify
• Step-by-step cards: Provide multiplication and division steps

• Observation: Do students apply multiplication/division correctly?

• Worksheet: Multiply/divide 4 rational expressions

• Simplify-first task: Factor, then multiply/divide

• Check-your-work: Verify by substituting a value

• Multiplication/division procedure guides

• Reciprocal explanation

• Practice worksheets

• Simplify-first templates

• Resource: Khan Academy "Multiplying & Dividing Rational Expressions" (adapte