Third Grade · Math · week 11

Division as an unknown factor

Solve division by thinking "what times the divisor gives the total?" — using known multiplication facts.

Here is the fastest way to divide: turn it into a multiplication question. 24 ÷ 6 asks "6 times WHAT equals 24?" You already know 6 × 4 = 24, so 24 ÷ 6 = 4.

Every division fact hides inside a multiplication fact you know. That is why building your times tables pays off double.

📋 For the teacher
Teach it (10–15 min):
  • Rewrite every division as a "___ times what?" question out loud before solving.
  • Use fact triangles from week 8 — cover a corner to reveal the division.
  • Praise using a KNOWN fact instead of counting — that is the goal.
  • Keep the divisors to the facts they own (2,3,4,5,10) this week.
Talk about it:
  • How can multiplication help you divide?
  • What question does 24 ÷ 6 really ask?
  • Why do strong times tables make division easy?

Mastery looks like: They solve division facts by recalling the matching multiplication fact, not by counting.

Common stumbles: Reaching for repeated subtraction when a known fact would be instant; confusing which number is the divisor.

See it visually

Interactive, spoken-aloud tools that show this idea in motion.

DivisionShare fairly and build equal groups.try →MultiplicationEqual groups and arrays make products finally click.try →
Homework for this lessonType it, write it with a stylus, or print it for pencil & paper.open →
Records attendance + 15 min of Math for this learner.
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