Lesson 3

Interpreting Division Situations

Let’s explore situations that involve division.

Problem 1

Write a multiplication equation and a division equation that this diagram could represent.

A tape diagram of three equal parts. Each part is labeled "eighteen". A brace from the beginning of the diagram to the end of the disgram is labeled "54".

Problem 2

Consider the problem: Mai has $36 to spend on movie tickets. Each movie ticket costs $4.50. How many tickets can she buy?

  1. Write a multiplication equation and a division equation to represent this situation.
  2. Find the answer. Draw a diagram, if needed.
  3. Use the multiplication equation to check your answer.

Problem 3

Kiran said that this diagram can show the solution to \(16\div 8 = {?}\) or \(16 \div 2={?}\), depending on how we think about the equations and the “?”.

Explain or show how Kiran is correct.

Tape diagram. 2 equal parts labeled, 8, Total, 16.

Problem 4

Write a sentence describing a situation that could be represented by the equation \(4 \div 1\frac13 = {?}\).

(From Unit 4, Lesson 2.)

Problem 5

Noah said, “When you divide a number by a second number, the result will always be smaller than the first number.”

Jada said, “I think the result could be larger or smaller, depending on the numbers.”

Do you agree with either of them? Explain or show your reasoning.

(From Unit 4, Lesson 1.)

Problem 6

Mini muffins cost $3.00 per dozen.

  • Andre says, “I have $2.00, so I can afford 8 muffins.”
  • Elena says, “I want to get 16 muffins, so I’ll need to pay $4.00."

Do you agree with either of them? Explain your reasoning.

(From Unit 3, Lesson 7.)

Problem 7

A family has a monthly budget of $2,400. How much money is spent on each category?

  1. 44% is spent on housing.

  2. 23% is spent on food.

  3. 6% is spent on clothing.

  4. 17% is spent on transportation.

  5. The rest is put into savings.

(From Unit 3, Lesson 15.)