1. Discuss why the identity element for multiplication is important for finding LCD?

2. Discuss how a ‘feel for numbers and algebra’ is like the intuition that someone like, state Michael Jordan, has for basketball.

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Answer:
The identity element (or identity property) of multiplication states that if you multiply a number times 1, it stays the same. We also know that any number divided by itself (n/n) is also 1, so in essence, when finding the LCD, you need to multiply a fraction by 1 (meaning n/n). For example, in finding the LCD of 1/2 and 1/3 for example, we know the LCD is 6, but you have to turn 1/2 into 3/6 by multiplying by 3/3 (or 1). The number is the same, but now the denominator is different.

Michael Jordan had to work very hard at his craft before he got intuitively good at basketball. In the same way, students need to work at numbers and algebra and practice and practice before they get an automatic feel for what to do. This isn't to say that there isn't some innate capability for this (if I practiced the rest of my life at basketball, I'd never be as good at it as Jordan), but with enough practice, ANYONE can have a good feel for numbers.