In this Grade 6 lesson from Big Ideas Math, Course 1, students learn how to divide decimals by whole numbers and by other decimals using base ten block models and standard algorithms. Key skills include placing the decimal point correctly in the quotient, multiplying the divisor and dividend by a power of 10 to create a whole-number divisor, and using estimation to check results. The lesson aligns with Common Core standard 6.NS.3 and covers problems ranging from simple quotients like 7.6 ÷ 4 to more complex cases like 0.273 ÷ 0.39.
Section 1
Dividing Decimals Using the Standard Algorithm
To divide a decimal dividend by a whole number divisor, place the decimal point in the quotient directly above the decimal point in the dividend.
Then, perform the division as you would with whole numbers.
Section 2
How to Divide a Decimal by a Decimal
How to divide decimal numbers:
Step 1. Make the divisor a whole number by moving the decimal point all the way to the right. Move the decimal point in the dividend the same number of places to the right, writing zeros as needed.
Step 2. Divide. Place the decimal point in the quotient above the decimal point in the dividend.
Step 3. Write the quotient.
Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.
Section 1
Dividing Decimals Using the Standard Algorithm
To divide a decimal dividend by a whole number divisor, place the decimal point in the quotient directly above the decimal point in the dividend.
Then, perform the division as you would with whole numbers.
Section 2
How to Divide a Decimal by a Decimal
How to divide decimal numbers:
Step 1. Make the divisor a whole number by moving the decimal point all the way to the right. Move the decimal point in the dividend the same number of places to the right, writing zeros as needed.
Step 2. Divide. Place the decimal point in the quotient above the decimal point in the dividend.
Step 3. Write the quotient.