Sometimes a number does not divide exactly. 47 ÷ 5 is 9 remainder 2, because 9 × 5 = 45 and 2 are left over. The remainder is always smaller than the number you divide by.
In a word problem, think about what the remainder means. If 47 children travel in vans of 5, you need 10 vans, because the 2 extra children still need a seat. If 47 cookies go in bags of 5, there are only 9 full bags.
Worked example
What is the remainder when 58 is divided by 6?
- 6 × 9 = 54, which is the biggest multiple of 6 under 58.
- 58 − 54 = 4.
Answer:4
Key words
- remainder
- what is left over after dividing
- divisor
- the number you divide by
- round up
- use the next whole number when everyone needs a place
Practise this
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: 4.OA.A.3, 4.NBT.B.6