Dividing Whole Numbers by Decimals

Grade 6 Mathematics Understanding Division with Decimals Building Mathematical Confidence

What We Already Know

We can divide whole numbers (12 ÷ 3 = 4) We understand what decimals are (0.1, 0.2, 0.5) Decimals represent parts of a whole Division means 'how many groups?'

Think About This...

If we have 6 whole pizzas... And we want to divide them into pieces that are 0.2 of a pizza each... How many pieces will we get?

Hands-On Exploration

Use base-10 blocks to show 6 whole units Count how many 0.2 pieces fit inside Work with a partner to solve 6 ÷ 0.2 Record your thinking on your whiteboard

The Magic Trick: Make It Easier!

Problem: 6 ÷ 0.2 Multiply BOTH numbers by 10 New problem: 60 ÷ 2 Much easier to solve: 60 ÷ 2 = 30

Step-by-Step Method

Your Turn to Practice!

Try these problems with your partner: 4 ÷ 0.4 = ? 10 ÷ 0.25 = ? Use manipulatives or draw pictures to help

Remember This!

When dividing a whole number by a decimal: Multiply both numbers by 10 (or 100) This makes the decimal become a whole number Then divide as usual!