Introduction to Division
Division means sharing equally or splitting into equal groups. We use the ÷ symbol. Division is the opposite of multiplication.
Sharing Equally
When we share equally, everyone gets the same amount. Divide 12 biscuits between 3 friends:
Friend 1: 4
Friend 2: 4
Friend 3: 4
12 ÷ 3 = 4
Making Equal Groups
We can also ask: how many groups of 2 can we make from 10?
10 ÷ 2 = 5 groups
The Division Symbol
We write division using ÷ (called obelus or division sign).
15 ÷ 3 = 5
Division and Multiplication
Division and multiplication are opposites (inverse operations). Knowing times tables helps you divide!
Dividing 20 Stars into 4 Groups
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4
20 ÷ 4 = 5
20 stars shared into 4 equal groups = 5 stars in each group
Key Vocabulary
Knowledge Check
Question 1
18 apples are shared equally into 3 bags. How many apples are in each bag?
Question 2
How many groups of 5 can you make from 25?
Question 3
Which multiplication fact helps you solve 16 ÷ 4?
Question 4
There are 24 students going on a trip. They sit in groups of 6 on the bus. How many groups are there?
Lesson Summary
- ✓Division means sharing equally or making equal groups. We write it with the ÷ symbol.
- ✓The inverse of division is multiplication — knowing times tables helps you divide.
- ✓In 18 ÷ 3 = 6: 18 is the total, 3 is the number of groups, 6 is each group's share.
- ✓To check a division answer, multiply: if 18 ÷ 3 = 6, then 6 × 3 should equal 18. ✓