Rename the decimal in tenths or hundredths, divide, then rename back. 2.4 is 24 tenths, and 24 tenths ÷ 3 = 8 tenths = 0.8. If the digits run out, add a zero: 3.2 = 3.20 = 320 hundredths, and 320 ÷ 5 = 64 hundredths = 0.64. Use a 0 to hold any empty place, as in 0.36 ÷ 4 = 0.09.
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Equal parts, equal wholes
2/4 = 4/8
Both bars are the same length. Find a division of the second bar that lines up exactly with the coloured edge.
Words to know
- dividend
- the number being divided
- placeholder zero
- a 0 that keeps the other digits in their places
- quotient
- the answer to a division
Worked examples
2.4 ÷ 3 = ?
- 1.2.4 is 24 tenths.
- 2.24 tenths ÷ 3 = 8 tenths = 0.8.
= 0.8
7.44 ÷ 6 = ?
- 1.7.44 is 744 hundredths.
- 2.744 ÷ 6 = 124, and 124 hundredths = 1.24.
= 1.24
3.2 ÷ 5 = ?
- 1.Write 3.2 as 3.20, which is 320 hundredths.
- 2.320 ÷ 5 = 64, and 64 hundredths = 0.64.
= 0.64
For parents
Method: Divide in tenths or hundredths
What to say: How many tenths or hundredths is that? Check: does your answer times the divisor give the start number?
Common mistakes:
- Leaves out a zero in the quotient, so later digits slide into the wrong place (0.36 ÷ 4 → 0.9).
- Stops dividing when the digits of the dividend run out and ignores the remainder (3.2 ÷ 5 → 0.6).
- Divides the digits as a whole number and leaves out the decimal point (2.4 ÷ 3 → 8).
- Puts the decimal point one place too far left in the answer (2.4 ÷ 3 → 0.08).