Dividing by a one-digit number · Usually met around P3
Dividing three numbers
Left to right, one step at a time.
How to do it
Method
Left to right, one step at a time
48 ÷ 2 ÷ 3 = 24 ÷ 3 = 8
Another way
Divide once by the product
48 ÷ (2 × 3) = 48 ÷ 6 = 8
In full
Divide from left to right: 48 ÷ 2 ÷ 3 → 48 ÷ 2 = 24, then 24 ÷ 3 = 8. Never work out 2 ÷ 3 first. Another way: dividing by 2 and then by 3 is the same as dividing once by 2 × 3 = 6: 48 ÷ 6 = 8, the same answer. To check, multiply back: 8 × 3 = 24, 24 × 2 = 48.
Worked examples
Have a go first, then open each one for the answer and the working.
Example 1
72 ÷ 4 ÷ 2 = □
Show the answer and working
Answer: 9
Left to right: 72 ÷ 4 = 18, 18 ÷ 2 = 9.
Example 2
40 ÷ 4 ÷ 2 = 40 ÷ 6
True or false?
Show the answer and working
Answer: False
Dividing by 4 and then by 2 is the same as dividing once by 4 × 2 = 8.
Example 3
216 ÷ □ ÷ 9 = 12
Show the answer and working
Answer: 2
Work back: 216 ÷ □, then ÷ 9, gives 12, so 216 ÷ □ = 12 × 9 = 108, and □ = 216 ÷ 108 = 2.
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