Ribbon pieces: make fraction division visible

Grade 6 mathematics · 15 minutes · Fraction division

Interpret division by a fraction as counting how many equal-sized groups fit.

Classroom activity

You have 3/4 metre of ribbon. Each decoration needs 1/8 metre.

1. Draw a strip representing 1 metre and divide it into eighths. Shade the ribbon you have.
2. Count the 1/8 metre pieces in the shaded section. Write the division equation.
3. How many decorations could you make from 1 1/4 metres? Show the extra whole metre in your drawing.
4. Explain why dividing by 1/8 gives a number larger than the ribbon length measured in metres. What units belong to the answer?

Keep the drawings visible while partners explain their equations.

Check understanding

How many 1/4 litre servings fit into 1 1/2 litres? Draw a model and write an equation.

Teacher guide and answers

3/4 ÷ 1/8 = 6 decorations; 1 1/4 ÷ 1/8 = 10. The quotient counts small pieces rather than measuring metres. The check is 1 1/2 ÷ 1/4 = 6 servings. Ask learners to distinguish a whole unit from one group. Extend to 3/4 ÷ 1/2 = 1 1/2 groups and discuss the half-group.

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Grade 6 topic reference. Confirm your adopted standards; topic guidance does not certify alignment.