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Solve division word problems

Division word problems involve interpreting a whole-number situation as equal sharing, equal grouping, measurement, or multiplicative comparison, then representing the relationships with an equation, diagram, or array and determining an unknown quotient, group size, or number of groups. The reasoning includes using multiplication to check the solution, interpreting remainders according to the context—such as leaving, ignoring, or increasing the number of groups—and judging whether the answer is reasonable; division with fractions, decimals, or multi-digit divisors is not included.

Detailed Explanation: Solve division word problems

To solve a division word problem:

  1. Find the total amount.
  2. Decide what the groups mean.
  3. Write a division equation.
  4. Solve and interpret any remainder.
  5. Check with multiplication.

Example:
There are 2626 students. Each van can carry 66 students. How many vans are needed?

  • The total is 2626 students.
  • Each group has 66 students, so we divide by 66.
  • Write the equation:
26÷6=4 R226 \div 6 = 4\text{ R}2

This means 44 vans can carry 2424 students, with 22 students left over.

Since the leftover students still need a van, we need one more van:

4+1=54+1=5

Answer: 55 vans are needed.

Check:
Five vans can carry

5×6=30 students5 \times 6=30\text{ students}

That is enough for 2626 students, so the answer is reasonable.

Learn by doing: Solve division word problems

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    Division Word Problems (Small Integers)

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