standard_description: Interpret a fraction as division of the numerator by the denominator (a/b = a ÷ b). Solve word problems involving division of whole numbers leading to answers in the form of fractions or mixed numbers, e.g., by using visual fraction models or equations to represent the problem. For example, interpret 3/4 as the result of dividing 3 by 4, noting that 3/4 multiplied by 4 equals 3, and that when 3 wholes are shared equally among 4 people each person has a share of size 3/4. If 9 people want to share a 50-pound sack of rice equally by weight, how many pounds of rice should each person get? Between what two whole numbers does your answer lie?
problem_activity: Narrative
In this activity, students find the perimeter of several shapes and write expressions that show their reasoning. Each side of the shape is labeled with its length, prompting students to notice repetition in some of the numbers. The perimeter of all shapes can be found by addition, but students may notice that it is efficient to reason multiplicatively rather than additively (MP8). For example, they may write
\(4 \times 6\frac{1}{3}\)
instead of
\(6\frac{1}{3} + 6\frac{1}{3} + 6\frac{1}{3} + 6\frac{1}{3}\)
.
MLR8 Discussion Supports.
Synthesis: Some students may benefit from the opportunity to rehearse what they will say with a partner before they share with the whole class.
Advances: Speaking
Launch
Groups of 2–4
Activity
3–4 minutes: independent work time
2 minutes: group discussion
Student Facing
Find the perimeter of each shape. Write an expression that shows how you find the perimeter.
[IMG]
Compare your expressions with your partners’ expressions. Make 1–2 observations.
Student Response
Teachers with a valid work email address can
click here to register or sign in
for free access to Student Response.
Activity Synthesis
Invite students to share the expressions they wrote for the perimeter of each shape. Record the expressions.
For each shape, ask: “What is the same about these expressions? What is different?” (They each use the side lengths in the shape. They each show the total length around the shape. Some use addition, some use multiplication, some use both multiplication and addition.)
Highlight that when two or more sides have the same length, the perimeter can be found by adding, multiplying, or a combination of both.


aligns: no