Unit 3, Lesson 16
Reason about Quotients
Grade 5
Preparation
Lesson Narrative
In previous lessons students found the value of quotients of a unit fraction and a whole number. In this lesson they think about comparing the value of these quotients without calculating. For example, students know from earlier work that is less than because there are more groups of 2 in 48 than groups of 4. is less than because s are smaller than s and so it takes more s to make an amount. This kind of reasoning also shows that is less than because dividing the same amount into more pieces creates smaller pieces.
- Engagement
None
- Critique (orally) explanations of strategies used to determine the size of a quotient when dividing a whole number by a unit fraction.
- Explain (orally and in writing) strategies for determining whether a quotient involving a whole number and a unit fraction is greater or less than 1.
- Let’s apply what we know about division to make sure our answers make sense.
Required Preparation
None
Teacher Reflection Questions
Reflect on a time your thinking changed about something in class recently. How will you alter your teaching practice to incorporate your new understanding?