standard_description: Use variables to represent quantities in a real-world or mathematical problem, and construct simple equations and inequalities to solve problems by reasoning about the quantities.
problem_activity: Narrative
The purpose of this activity is for students to practice finding the value of division expressions using any strategy that makes sense to them. They may divide the dividend into equal groups or use the divisor to multiply up to the given dividend. They may choose to represent the division or multiplication with base-ten blocks or by drawing diagrams.
During the synthesis, highlight strategies that rely on place value, properties of operations, and the relationship between multiplication and division (MP7).
Representation: Develop Language and Symbols.
Synthesis: Make connections between representations visible. Elicit from students the connections between the different strategies and representations shared by students.
Supports accessibility for: Visual-Spatial Processing, Conceptual Processing
Required Materials
Materials to Gather
Base-ten blocks
Materials to Copy
Centimeter Grid Paper - Standard
Launch
Groups of 2
Give students access to base-ten blocks and grid paper.
Activity
“Find the value of each quotient. You can use whatever strategy or representation you prefer.”
8–10 minutes: independent work time
Monitor for a variety of strategies and representations. Identify students to share in the synthesis.
“Share your favorite way to divide with your partner.”
2–3 minutes: partner discussion
Student Facing
Find the value of each quotient. Explain or show your reasoning. Organize it so it can be followed by others.
\(80 \div 5\)
\(68 \div 4\)
\(91 \div 7\)
If you have time: Eighty-four students on a field trip are put into groups. Each group has 14 students. How many groups are there?
Student Response
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Activity Synthesis
Have previously selected students share their responses. Display or record the strategies and representations students use.
For each problem, consider polling the class on the strategy they used.


aligns: no