How to Use Models to Divide Whole Numbers by Unit Fractions?

Step-by-Step Guide Using Models to Divide Whole Numbers by Unit Fractions

A fraction contains a number with a denominator and a numerator.
To divide a whole number by a unit fraction, you have to follow these steps:
Step 1: Place the whole number over the \(1\).
Step 2: Flip the denominator and the numerator. It means \(1\) becomes a numerator and that whole number becomes the denominator.
Step 3: Multiply the numbers.

Using Models to Divide Whole Numbers by Unit Fractions – Examples 1

Divide \(4÷\frac{1}{2}\). Use the models to help you.

Solution:

Step 1: Model the whole number \(4\).
Step 2: Model \(\frac{1}{2}\) and find out how many fraction pieces makeup \(4\).
Step 3: To make \(4\), it takes \(2\) of the fraction pieces. So, \(4÷\frac{1}{2}=8\).

Using Models to Divide Whole Numbers by Unit Fractions – Examples 2

Divide \(1÷\frac{1}{5}\). Use the models to help you.
Step 1: Model the whole number \(1\).
Step 2: Model \(\frac{1}{5}\) and find out how many fraction pieces makeup \(1\).
Step 3: To make \(1\), it takes \(5\) of the fraction pieces. So, \(1÷\frac{1}{5}=5\)