What is the first step in converting a mixed number to an improper fraction?

Multiply the whole number and the denominator.

Explain in your own words why it is important to keep the denominator the same when converting a mixed number to an improper fraction.

Keeping the denominator the same ensures that the size of the fractional parts remains consistent, representing the same portion of a whole.

I can convert mixed numbers to improper fractions.

1
To convert a mixed number to an improper fraction, the first step is to multiply the whole number by the denominator.
2
After multiplying the whole number and denominator, you must add the result to the numerator.
3
The final step in converting a mixed number to an improper fraction is to write the new numerator over the original denominator.