New
New
Divide decimal fractions by 1-digit numbers using written methods
I can explain how to use written methods to divide decimal fractions by 1-digit numbers.
Lesson 15 of 15
New
New
- Year 5
Divide decimal fractions by 1-digit numbers using written methods
I can explain how to use written methods to divide decimal fractions by 1-digit numbers.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Use scaling to convert the decimal fraction to a whole number; after dividing, use scaling to adjust the answer.
- Short division can be used to divide; the decimal point in the answer must be aligned with that in the decimal fraction.
- Estimation should be used to sense-check answers.
Keywords
Estimation - When we estimate, we find a value that is close enough to the right answer, usually with some thought or calculation involved.
Scaling - Scaling is when a given quantity is made ___ times the size. It can be used to adjust the size of a factor. In this lesson, scaling will involve making values 10 or 100 times the size.
Common misconception
The short division algorithm may not be correctly aligned.
Check that the decimal point aligns in the decimal fraction and the answer.
Provide additional scaffolds for those children who are not secure with their times tables. Revisit the short division algorithm prior to the lesson with whole numbers to support children to make connections.
Teacher tip
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the equation to its answer.
Match the equation to its answer.
Q2.Match the equation to its answer.
Match the equation to its answer.
Q3.Round 8.4 to the nearest whole number.
Round 8.4 to the nearest whole number.

Q4.Calculate this using short division 51 ÷ 3 =
Calculate this using short division 51 ÷ 3 =
Q5.Calculate this using short division 552 ÷ 3 =
Calculate this using short division 552 ÷ 3 =
Q6.Lucas has £438 and Sofia has one-sixth times this amount. How much money does Sofia have? £
Lucas has £438 and Sofia has one-sixth times this amount. How much money does Sofia have? £
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Calculate 55.6 ÷ 4 =
Use scaling to convert 55.6 into a whole number first.
Calculate 55.6 ÷ 4 =
Use scaling to convert 55.6 into a whole number first.
Q2.Which of these would be the most sensible estimate to check if this calculation is correct? 55.6 ÷ 4 = 13.9
Which of these would be the most sensible estimate to check if this calculation is correct? 55.6 ÷ 4 = 13.9
55 ÷ 4
55.5 ÷ 4
55.7 ÷ 4
50 ÷ 4
Q3.Calculate 76.5 ÷ 5 =
Calculate 76.5 ÷ 5 =
Q4.Calculate 5.16 ÷ 4 =
Calculate 5.16 ÷ 4 =
Q5.Lucas has 7.8 m string. He cuts this into three equal pieces. How long is each piece? m
Lucas has 7.8 m string. He cuts this into three equal pieces. How long is each piece? m
Q6.Sofia has £34.65 Lucas has one-fifth times this amount. How much does Lucas have? £
Sofia has £34.65 Lucas has one-fifth times this amount. How much does Lucas have? £