Applying Scaling to Real-World Measurements
Scaling applies a fractional scaling factor to an original measurement to find a new, enlarged or reduced measurement by multiplying the original by the factor. If the factor is greater than 1, the result is an enlargement; if less than 1, it is a reduction. This Grade 5 math skill from Eureka Math Chapter 24 covers multiplication with fractions and decimals as scaling.
Key Concepts
To find a new, scaled measurement, multiply the original measurement by the scaling factor. $$\text{New Measurement} = \text{Original Measurement} \times \text{Scaling Factor}$$.
Common Questions
How do you apply a scaling factor to a real-world measurement?
Multiply the original measurement by the scaling factor. If the factor is greater than 1, the new measurement is larger; if less than 1, it is smaller.
What is an example of scaling down using fractions?
A blueprint uses a scale factor of 1/40. A wall that is 10 feet long appears as 10 times 1/40 equals 10/40 equals 1/4 of a foot on the blueprint.
What is an example of scaling up using fractions?
A 4-inch photo is enlarged by a factor of 5/2. The new width is 4 times 5/2 equals 20/2 equals 10 inches.
Where is scaling used in real life?
Scaling is used in blueprints and architectural drawings, map making, recipes (halving or doubling), photography, and model construction, wherever a real-world size needs to be proportionally represented at a different scale.