Fractions as Division (Grade 5)

Videos, examples, and solutions to help Grade 5 students learn to interpret a fraction as division of the numerator by the denominator (a/b = a ÷ b). Solve word problems involving division of whole numbers leading to answers in the form of fractions or mixed numbers, e.g., by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem.

For example, interpret 3/4 as the result of dividing 3 by 4, noting that 3/4 multiplied by 4 equals 3, and that when 3 wholes are shared equally among 4 people each person has a share of size 3/4. If 9 people want to share a 50-pound sack of rice equally by weight, how many pounds of rice should each person get? Between what two whole numbers does your answer lie?

Common Core: 5.NF.3

Suggested Learning Targets

• I can explain that fractions represent division.
• I can solve word problems that involve division of whole numbers and interpret the quotient in the context of the problem.
• I can explain or illustrate my solution using visual fraction models or equations. Interpreting fractions as division and solving word problems involving division (5.NF.3)

Connecting Fractions and Division: 5.NF.3
A fraction is a division problem, in which the numerator is divided by the denominator.
Examples:

1. Four students shared one dessert. How much dessert did each student get?
2. Four students shared three desserts. How much dessert did each student get?
3. 11 tomato slices are being shared equally among 3 pizzas. How many slices are on each pizza?

5.NF.B.3 Common Core Standards for Teachers and Parents
Examples:

1. If 4 people want to share 3 sacks of rice equally, how many sacks of rice should each person get?
2. One of the stages of the Tour de France bicycle race is a distance of 138 miles. If a race averages 24 miles per hour, how much time (in hours) will it take to complete that stage?
3. A school bus has a maximum capacity of 48 passengers. There are 208 students and teachers that will be going on a field trip. How many buses will be needed?

• Show Step-by-step Solutions

Dividing Fractions (5.NF.3)
Common Core State Standard 5.NF.3: interpret a fraction as division of the numerator by the denominator. Solve word problems involving division of whole numbers leading to answers in the form of fractions or mixed numbers.

• Show Step-by-step Solutions

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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