Lesson Plan: Dividing Decimals
Subject: Mathematics
Grade Level: 6
Duration: 30 Minutes
Topic: Dividing Decimals
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Understand how to divide decimals by whole numbers.
- Divide decimals by decimals.
- Solve word problems involving division of decimals.
Materials Needed
- Whiteboard and markers
- Decimal division worksheets
- Pencils and erasers
- Interactive decimal grid or number line (optional)
- Calculators (optional)
Standards
This lesson aligns with the following Common Core State Standards:
- CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.NS.B.3: Flawlessly divide multi-digit numbers with decimals.
Introduction (5 Minutes)
- Hook: Begin by asking students where they encounter decimals in real life (e.g., money, measurements).
- Objective Overview: Explain that today they will learn how to divide decimals, a valuable skill for both academic and real-world applications.
Direct Instruction (10 Minutes)
Dividing Decimals by Whole Numbers
-
Explain the Process:
- To divide a decimal by a whole number, proceed as you would with whole numbers. However, ensure that you place the decimal point in the quotient correctly.
- Example: (6.4 \div 2)
- Ignore the decimal and divide as if it were (64 \div 2 = 32).
- Then, place the decimal point: the answer is (3.2).
-
Demonstration:
- Write another example on the board: (5.76 \div 3).
- Guide the students through the problem, emphasizing the placement of the decimal.
Dividing Decimals by Decimals
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Explain the Process:
- When dividing a decimal by another decimal, first multiply both the dividend and the divisor by a power of ten to shift the decimal point to the right until the divisor is a whole number.
- Example: (2.4 \div 0.6)
- Shift the decimal: (2.4) becomes (24) and (0.6) becomes (6).
- Now divide: (24 \div 6 = 4).
-
Demonstration:
- Work through (1.5 \div 0.5) together, following the same steps.
Guided Practice (10 Minutes)
-
Example Problems:
- Provide students with practice problems on the board:
- (4.8 \div 2)
- (7.2 \div 0.9)
- (12.6 \div 1.5)
- Allow students to solve these in pairs, encouraging discussion about their approaches.
-
Check for Understanding:
- Walk around and assist as needed. Ask students to explain their reasoning.
Independent Practice (5 Minutes)
- Distribute a worksheet with a mix of problems involving:
- Division of decimals by whole numbers
- Division of decimals by decimals
- Word problems (e.g., “You spent $4.50 on 3 items. How much did each item cost?”)
Closure (5 Minutes)
-
Review Key Points: Summarize the key steps in dividing decimals. Ask the students to recall:
- How to place the decimal point.
- How to convert decimals into whole numbers for division.
-
Exit Ticket:
- Ask each student to write down one thing they learned today and one question they still have about dividing decimals as they leave.
Assessment
- Monitor students during guided and independent practice for understanding.
- Evaluate the exit tickets to gauge overall comprehension and identify areas needing review.
Extensions/Modifications
- For Advanced Students: Introduce more complex word problems or variations with larger decimals.
- For Struggling Students: Provide visual aids (such as a decimal grid) and practice with smaller numbers before moving to larger decimals.
Homework
Assign additional problems on a handout that allows for further practice in the division of decimals, emphasizing both types: by whole numbers and by decimals.
This lesson plan encourages active participation and thoughtful engagement with the topic of dividing decimals, catering to a range of learning styles and abilities.