submitted by: Jeff LeMieux, October, 2003This narrative describes how I use my javascript tool, cataloged in the Math Tools digital library, in the classroom.
Course: Math 7
Topic: Converting Decimal Inches into Fractional Inches (16ths, 32nds, etc.)
Resource type: JavaScriptResource location:
http://www2.whidbey.net/ohmsmath/webwork/javascript/decin2fr.htmlMath Forum catalogue entry:
http://mathforum.org/mathtools/tool/12851Story: This script takes a typical calculator answer to a computation involving inches and converts the answer to a fractional equivalent. This is a necessary step if actual measurement is involved. An example would be when the calculation on the calculator gives an answer like 9.35742 inches. The script would return an answer of 9-6/16 inches which the student would have to reduce to 9-3/8 inches. The script allows a greater degree of accuracy by selecting other denominators (such as 32nds or 64ths) at the discretion of the user.
The script lists the steps which would be identical to the steps to be followed on a calculator to determine the same results. Students can follow the procedure on their calculators and use it independent of this script.
The script will also work for other forms of measure. The user need only ignore the term 'inches' and use the denominator and label which goes with the calculation being attempted. Some examples would be to substitute 'feet' for 'inches' and use the denominator of 12 which would convert a decimal answer of feet in to feet and fractions of a foot (n/12), e.g. 8.25 feet would convert to 8-3/12 feet - or 8 feet and 3 inches.
Where and how I used this: This script is used mostly in drawing/making scale models. It can also provide a way to measure results using a standard ruler to check work. There is also a simpler version available here which only converts to 16ths of an inch.
Send comments to Jeff LeMieux at tackweed@whidbey.net
Jeff LeMieux 2003
http://www2.whidbey.net/ohmsmath