Explain how the distributive law applies to division expressions with a common divisor
I can explain how the distributive law can help to solve division problems more efficiently, and write equations that show this.
Explain how the distributive law applies to division expressions with a common divisor
I can explain how the distributive law can help to solve division problems more efficiently, and write equations that show this.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- 5 divided by ___ minus 3 divided by ___ is equal to 2 divided by ___
- Where there is a common divisor, the dividends can be subtracted and the difference divided by the divisor.
- The distributive law can be very useful for solving problems where there is a common divisor.
- You can use brackets in an equation to show that you have used the distributive law.
Keywords
Distributive law - The distributive law says that multiplying a number by a group of numbers added together is the same as doing each multiplication separately.
Divisor - The divisor is what we are dividing by.
Dividend - The dividend is the amount we are dividing.
Common misconception
When writing the subtraction expression within the equation, children may write the parts to be divided in the order they appear in the problem, rather than putting the greatest one first.
Explore where the parts to be divided need to be written in a different order to how they appear in the problem. Compare this with addition and explore commutativity so that children can see how addition is commutative but subtraction is not.
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Explain how the distributive law applies to division expressions with a common divisor, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Explain how the distributive law applies to division expressions with a common divisor, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
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5
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25
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Exit quiz
6 Questions
