Using your tape measure as a fraction calculator

Math for Welders
6 Aug 202003:58

TLDRThis video explains how to use a tape measure as a substitute for a fraction calculator. The instructor demonstrates simple fraction addition and subtraction problems, like 1/4 + 1/2 and 5/16 + 1/8, using a tape measure to visualize and solve the fractions. Viewers are encouraged to learn how to read a tape measure before attempting this method. It's a handy trick for anyone in construction or welding who might break or forget their calculator, allowing them to quickly solve fraction problems on the go.

Takeaways

  • 📏 You can use a tape measure to do fraction problems if you know how to read it.
  • 🛠 The idea behind using a tape measure for fractions came from a concern that students might not be able to do fractions without a calculator.
  • 🔢 The method requires understanding how to read the fractions on a tape measure, such as 1/4, 1/2, and 1/16.
  • ➕ To add fractions like 1/4 and 1/2, find the positions on the tape and move accordingly. In this case, it results in 3/4.
  • 🔍 For adding more complex fractions, like 5/16 + 1/8, use knowledge of equivalents (e.g., 1/8 equals 2/16) and calculate the position accordingly.
  • 🧮 When adding fractions like 15/16 + 3/8, you can use the tape measure to figure out that the result is 1 and 5/16.
  • ➖ The same method applies to subtraction problems, using the tape to move backward through fractional distances.
  • 📉 For instance, subtracting 3/8 from 1 and 1/4 lands you at 7/8 using this method.
  • 🛠 This method is useful if your calculator breaks or if you want to quickly solve fraction problems.
  • 🎒 Since a tape measure is commonly available, it can be a handy tool for on-the-go fraction calculations.

Q & A

  • What is the method discussed in the video for solving fraction problems?

    -The method discussed involves using a tape measure to solve fraction problems by visually adding or subtracting the fractional distances on the tape.

  • Why is it important to know how to read a tape measure before using this method?

    -It is important to know how to read a tape measure because the method relies on being able to identify fractional increments on the tape. Without this knowledge, the method would be frustrating and ineffective.

  • How can you solve the fraction problem 1/4 + 1/2 using a tape measure?

    -To solve 1/4 + 1/2 using a tape measure, find the 1/4 mark, then move an additional 1/2 distance (which is the same as moving two 1/4 distances). The result will be 3/4.

  • How do you add 5/16 and 1/8 using this method?

    -To add 5/16 and 1/8 using a tape measure, first find the 5/16 mark. Since 1/8 equals 2/16, add two increments of 1/16 to reach 7/16.

  • What is the process for adding 15/16 and 3/8 on a tape measure?

    -To add 15/16 and 3/8, recognize that 1 inch is 16/16, so 15/16 is just below 1 inch. Since 3/8 equals 6/16, add 6 increments to 15/16 to get 1 and 5/16.

  • Can this method be used for subtraction problems as well?

    -Yes, the method can be used for subtraction. For example, to subtract 3/8 from 1 and 1/4, move backward three 1/8 distances from the 1 and 1/4 mark to get 7/8.

  • What is the advantage of using a tape measure for fraction problems?

    -The advantage is that a tape measure is often readily available, and it allows for quick, visual solutions to fraction problems without needing a calculator.

  • What should you do if you're unfamiliar with reading a tape measure?

    -If you are unfamiliar with reading a tape measure, it is recommended to first practice and learn how to read it, as this is essential for using the method effectively.

  • Why might someone prefer using a tape measure over a calculator for fractions?

    -Someone might prefer using a tape measure because it is a simple, reliable tool that can be used without needing batteries or electronics, and it helps reinforce a physical understanding of fractions.

  • How does the tape measure method ensure accuracy in adding and subtracting fractions?

    -The tape measure method ensures accuracy by using precise physical increments (e.g., 1/16 or 1/8) marked on the tape, making it easy to visualize and calculate fractions accurately.

Outlines

00:00

🔧 Using Tape Measure for Fraction Calculations

In this section, the speaker discusses the suggestion of using construction calculators for class and addresses concerns from a welding teacher about students potentially relying too much on calculators for fractions. The speaker introduces an alternative method: using a tape measure to solve fraction problems. Before proceeding, the speaker emphasizes that it is important to know how to read a tape measure, and recommends reviewing instructional videos or asking for help if needed.

📏 Example: Solving 1/4 + 1/2 with Tape Measure

The speaker demonstrates the tape measure method using the example of 1/4 plus 1/2. They explain how to find 1/4 on the tape measure and then add 1/2 by moving the equivalent distance of two more 1/4 increments. The final result is shown to be 3/4. This serves as a basic illustration of how to use a tape measure for fraction addition.

📐 Example: Adding 5/16 and 1/8 Using the Tape Measure

Here, the speaker provides another example involving the addition of 5/16 and 1/8. They explain that 1/4 is equivalent to 4/16 and locate 5/16 on the tape measure. Since 1/8 equals 2/16, they add two increments of 1/16 to 5/16, arriving at the solution of 7/16. This further demonstrates how fractions can be added using the tape measure.

🔢 Advanced Example: Adding 15/16 and 3/8

The speaker presents a more advanced example with the fractions 15/16 and 3/8. Knowing that 1 inch is 16/16, they identify 15/16 on the tape. Since 3/8 equals 6/16, the speaker adds 6/16 to 15/16, arriving at the total of 1 and 5/16. This showcases how to handle more complex fraction addition using the tape measure.

➖ Subtracting Fractions with the Tape Measure

In this final example, the speaker shows how the tape measure can also be used for fraction subtraction. They demonstrate subtracting 3/8 from 1 and 1/4. Starting at 1 and 1/4, they subtract three 1/8 increments, resulting in the answer of 7/8. This illustrates that the tape measure method is effective for both addition and subtraction of fractions.

🛠 Practical Tip: Tape Measure as a Calculator Alternative

The speaker concludes by reinforcing the practical utility of using a tape measure to solve fraction problems. Whether a calculator is unavailable or broken, the tape measure offers a reliable and handy alternative, especially since most students already carry one. This method allows for quick and efficient fraction calculations without the need for electronic tools.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Tape Measure

A tape measure is a tool used to measure lengths or distances, typically in construction or crafting. In the video, the speaker explains how a tape measure can be used to solve fraction problems by measuring segments directly on the tape.

💡Fractions

Fractions represent a part of a whole. The speaker shows how to add and subtract fractions using a tape measure by identifying different fractional divisions (like halves, quarters, eighths) on the tape.

💡Calculator

A device typically used for performing mathematical calculations. In the video, the speaker mentions how students might rely on calculators for solving fraction problems but suggests using a tape measure as an alternative.

💡Construction

Construction refers to building or assembling infrastructure. The video references 'construction calculators,' tools commonly used in construction to simplify math, but the focus is on learning to handle fractions without relying on these calculators.

💡One-fourth

One-fourth, or 1/4, is a fraction representing a quarter of a whole. In the video, the speaker uses this fraction in an example to show how to find and add it using a tape measure.

💡One-half

One-half, or 1/2, represents one of two equal parts of a whole. The speaker demonstrates how to add this fraction to another using the tape measure as a visual aid.

💡Five-sixteenths

Five-sixteenths, or 5/16, is a fraction used in the video to show how to add fractions by finding specific marks on the tape measure. The speaker explains how to locate this fraction relative to quarters and eighths.

💡Addition

Addition is a mathematical operation where two or more quantities are combined. The video focuses on adding fractions by using measurements on a tape measure as a practical tool for visualizing this process.

💡Subtraction

Subtraction is the process of taking one quantity away from another. The speaker explains how to subtract fractions using the tape measure, illustrating the distance between marks to perform the operation.

💡Inches

Inches are units of length used in the imperial system, commonly found on tape measures. The speaker uses inches to demonstrate how to add and subtract fractional measurements, helping viewers understand how to manipulate fractions visually.

Highlights

Using a tape measure as a fraction calculator if you don't have a calculator.

Ensure you know how to read a tape measure before using this method.

Example of adding fractions: One-fourth plus one-half.

To solve one-fourth plus one-half, find the fourth mark and add a half.

The result of one-fourth plus one-half is three-quarters.

Example of adding fractions: 5/16 plus 1/8.

To solve 5/16 plus 1/8, start at 5/16 and add 2/16 (which is equivalent to 1/8).

The result of 5/16 plus 1/8 is 7/16.

Example of adding fractions: 15/16 plus 3/8.

To solve 15/16 plus 3/8, add three 2/16 segments to reach the result.

The result of 15/16 plus 3/8 is one and five-sixteenths.

The tape measure method can also be used for subtraction problems.

Example of subtracting fractions: one and a quarter minus 3/8.

To solve one and a quarter minus 3/8, subtract three 1/8 segments.

The result of one and a quarter minus 3/8 is 7/8.

This method is a quick alternative when you don’t have a calculator handy.

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