Practice problems: Dividing fractions in word problems for 5th graders

📚 Topic Summary

Dividing fractions in word problems involves figuring out how many times one fraction fits into another. Think of it like this: if you have a pizza that's $\frac{1}{2}$ eaten and you want to divide the remaining pizza into slices that are $\frac{1}{8}$ of the whole pizza, you're asking how many $\frac{1}{8}$'s are in $\frac{1}{2}$. The key is to identify the total amount you're dividing and what you're dividing it by. Remember to invert and multiply!

For example, if a recipe calls for $\frac{2}{3}$ cup of flour, and you only want to make half of the recipe, you are dividing $\frac{2}{3}$ by 2 (or $\frac{2}{3} \div \frac{2}{1}$). This gives you the amount of flour needed for the smaller batch. Solving these problems gets easier with practice!

🧮 Part A: Vocabulary

Match the term to its definition:

1. Numerator
2. Denominator
3. Quotient
4. Fraction
5. Reciprocal

Definitions:

1. The number below the fraction bar.
2. The result of division.
3. A number that represents a part of a whole.
4. The number above the fraction bar.
5. A fraction flipped over (e.g., the reciprocal of $\frac{2}{3}$ is $\frac{3}{2}$).

✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks

When dividing fractions, we don't actually divide! Instead, we __________ the second fraction (the divisor) and then __________ the fractions. The flipped fraction is called the __________. To solve word problems, read carefully to identify what you are __________ and what you are dividing __________. Always simplify your __________ if possible.

🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking

Sarah has $\frac{3}{4}$ of a pizza left. She wants to share it equally among 3 friends. How much of the whole pizza does each friend get? Explain your thinking.