IXL | Scale drawings: scale factor word problems

Dakota measured the middle school and made a scale drawing. The scale of the drawing was 1 inch = 1 foot. What is the drawing's scale factor?

Simplify your answer and write it as a ratio, using a colon.

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question

Evelyn drew a scale drawing of a neighborhood park. The scale she used was 7 inches = 1 yard. What is the drawing's scale factor?

Simplify your answer and write it as a ratio, using a colon.

key idea

A scale factor is a ratio. It should be written in lowest form and without units.

solution

Write the scale of the drawing as a fraction. Put the shorter length in the numerator.

7 in

1 yd

First, convert the denominator to the same units as the numerator. Write an equivalent fraction with inches in the denominator. Since 1 yard is equal to 36 inches, multiply the denominator by 36 to get inches in the denominator.

7 in

1 yd

7 in

36 in

Next, drop the units. The units will cancel out because the numerator and denominator are both measured in inches.

7 in

36 in

Write the scale factor as a ratio, using a colon.

→

7:36

The scale factor is 7:36.

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Not feeling ready yet? These can help:

II.1Compare and convert customary units of length

JJ.1Compare and convert metric units of length

G.4Scale drawings: word problems

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