Dividing Decimals: Mastering Long Division
Grade 6 Mathematics Building Strong Math Skills Step-by-Step Learning
What We Already Know
We can divide whole numbers using long division Decimals are parts of whole numbers Place value helps us understand decimals Division is the opposite of multiplication
Think About This...
If 12 ÷ 3 = 4 What do you think 1.2 ÷ 3 equals? How might we figure this out?
Key Strategy: Make It a Whole Number
Move the decimal point in the divisor to make it whole Move the decimal point the same number of places in the dividend This doesn't change the answer! Example: 2.4 ÷ 0.8 becomes 24 ÷ 8
Let's Practice Together
Work through: 4.2 ÷ 0.6 Step 1: Move decimal points Step 2: Divide as whole numbers Step 3: Check our answer
Worked Example: 7.2 ÷ 1.8
{"left":"Original problem: 7.2 ÷ 1.8\nCount decimal places in 1.8: one place\nMove decimal one place right: 18","right":"Move decimal one place in 7.2: 72\nNow solve: 72 ÷ 18 = 4\nAnswer: 7.2 ÷ 1.8 = 4"}
Your Turn to Try
Problem 1: 6.3 ÷ 0.9 Problem 2: 8.4 ÷ 2.1 Problem 3: 5.6 ÷ 0.7 Use the step-by-step process!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forgetting to move the decimal point in both numbers Moving the decimal point the wrong direction Not moving it the same number of places Forgetting to check the answer makes sense
Remember This Key Point
When dividing decimals, make the divisor a whole number by moving decimal points the same number of places in both numbers.
1 more slide available after you open the deck.
Download all 10 slides