Divide Fractions Word Problems (Grade 5)

Videos, examples, solutions, and lessons to help Grade 5 students learn to apply and extend previous understandings of division to divide unit fractions by whole numbers and whole numbers by unit fractions.

A. Interpret division of a unit fraction by a non-zero whole number, and compute such quotients. For example, create a story context for (1/3) ÷ 4, and use a visual fraction model to show the quotient. Use the relationship between multiplication and division to explain that (1/3) ÷ 4 = 1/12 because (1/12) × 4 = 1/3.

B. Interpret division of a whole number by a unit fraction, and compute such quotients.For example, create a story context for 4 ÷ (1/5), and use a visual fraction model to show the quotient. Use the relationship between multiplication and division to explain that 4 ÷ (1/5) = 20 because 20 × (1/5) = 4.

C. Solve real world problems involving division of unit fractions by non-zero whole numbers and division of whole numbers by unit fractions, e.g., by using visual fraction models and equations to represent the problem. For example, how much chocolate will each person get if 3 people share 1/2 lb of chocolate equally? How many 1/3-cup servings are in 2 cups of raisins?

Common Core: 5.NF.7c

Suggested Learning Targets

• I can create story contexts for problems involving division of a fraction.
• I can solve problems involving division of fractions.
• I can explain or illustrate my solution using fraction models or equations.

Solving real world problems involving division of unit fractions by non-zero whole numbers 5.NF.7c

Dividing a fraction by a whole number word problem
Example:
Tommy is studying for final exams this weekend. He will spend 1/3 of the weekend studying. What fraction of the weekend will he spend studying for each of his 4 subjects if he spends the same amount of time studying for each subject?

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Dividing a whole number by a fraction word problem
Example:
Tracy is putting out decorative bowls of potpourri in each room of the hotel where she works. She wants to fill each bowl with 1/5 of a can of potpourri. If Tracy has 4 cans potpourri, in how many rooms can she place a bowl of potpourri?

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5.nf.7abc
The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) videos are designed to support states, schools, and teachers in the implementation of the CCSS. Each video is an audiovisual resource that focuses on one or more specific standards and usually includes examples/illustrations geared to enhancing understanding. The intent of each content-focused video is to clarify the meaning of the individual standard rather than to be a guide on how to teach each standard although the examples can be adapted for instructional use.

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Try the free Mathway calculator and problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.

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