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Year 5 - Maths

Solve comparison and change problems using multiplication

Compare and describe measurements using knowledge of multiplication and division

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will learn to compare and describe measurements using multiplication and division, applying their understanding of scaling as a structure of multiplication.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to solve comparison and change problems using multiplication.

Key Notes

  • A change in length can be described using multiplication.
  • The stem sentence, 'The ___ is ___ times the length of the ___' can be used to compare lengths.
  • Comparison and change problems can be represented visually to support solving them.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Comparison: When a comparison is made, we are determining how different two objects are. In this case, how many times longer, taller or deeper an object is than another.
  • Change: A comparison can also be made between an object at the start of, and then after, a change. Examples of change include a change in height of a flower due to growth.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Children may say, 'Tens times taller', which is imprecise.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

A change in length can be described using multiplication. The stem sentence, 'The ___ is ___ times the length of the ___' can be used to compare lengths.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Comparison'

When a comparison is made, we are determining how different two objects are. In this case, how many times longer, taller or deeper an object is than another. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Children may say, 'Tens times taller', which is imprecise. Correction: We say, 'Ten times the original height' because this is more precise and can be used when the scale factor is fractional.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 Maths guide library.