Explain how to multiply a fraction by a whole number.

To multiply a fraction by a whole number, multiply the numerator by the whole number.

When you multiply a fraction by a whole number, you are essentially scaling the fraction by that number. Let's break it down with an example. Suppose you have the fraction \( \frac{3}{4} \) and you want to multiply it by 5. The fraction \( \frac{3}{4} \) consists of a numerator (3) and a denominator (4).

To multiply \( \frac{3}{4} \) by 5, you only need to multiply the numerator by 5, while the denominator remains the same. So, you perform the multiplication as follows:

\[ \frac{3 \times 5}{4} = \frac{15}{4} \]

Now, you have \( \frac{15}{4} \), which is an improper fraction because the numerator is larger than the denominator. If needed, you can convert this improper fraction into a mixed number. To do this, divide the numerator by the denominator:

\[ 15 \div 4 = 3 \text{ remainder } 3 \]

So, \( \frac{15}{4} \) can be written as the mixed number \( 3 \frac{3}{4} \).

Remember, the key step is to multiply the numerator of the fraction by the whole number. This method works for any fraction and any whole number. If the result is an improper fraction, you can convert it to a mixed number for a more simplified answer. This process helps you understand how fractions and whole numbers interact, which is a fundamental skill in GCSE Maths.