In this lesson, students apply their knowledge of operations on decimals, equal-size groups, and rates to solve a variety of contextual problems.

The lesson begins with a Math Talk that prompts students to estimate quotients of decimals. In the main activity, an Information Gap, students practice identifying and asking for information that they need to solve problems about decimal lengths, distances, and constant speed. The two optional activities that follow allow students to interpret decimal quantities in sporting contexts (hurdle race and tennis), decide which operations are relevant, and perform calculations to find unknown measurements or information.

Students also draw or use a diagram to help them make sense of measurements, and practice communicating information with precision (MP6). The numbers used in the problems reflect measurements that can be accurately measured on site, so the decimals can all be calculated by hand.