Unit 5, Lesson 11
Dividing Rational Numbers
Grade 7
Preparation
Lesson Narrative
In this lesson, students divide signed numbers. First, students consider a multiplication equation and identify the solution to the equation, which is the value of the variable that makes the equation true. Then they use the relationship between multiplication and division to develop rules for dividing signed numbers. They apply these rules to solve problems about constant velocity and the progress of a drilling rig.
As students describe the rules for dividing signed numbers, they are attending to precision of language (MP6).
- Apply multiplication and division of signed numbers to solve problems involving constant speed with direction, and explain (orally) the reasoning.
- Generalize (orally) a method for determining the quotient of two signed numbers.
- Generate a division equation that represents the same relationship as a given multiplication equation with signed numbers.
Let's divide signed numbers.
Required Preparation
For the digital version of the activity, acquire devices that can run the applet.