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Year 5 - Maths

Use knowledge of multiplication and division to solve comparison and change problems

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 use knowledge of multiplication and division to solve comparison and change problems.

Key Notes

  • Change can be described using multiplication or division. Division can be represented as multiplication by a fraction.
  • The sentence 'The __________ is ___ times the size of the __________' supports us to describe a comparison or change.
  • If units are different, we should convert so that they are the same - this supports us to calculate.
  • To find a missing factor, we can divide the product by the known factor.

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 before, and then after, a change. Examples of a change include a change in height of a flower due to growth.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Manipulating equations can result in errors.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Change can be described using multiplication or division. Division can be represented as multiplication by a fraction. The sentence 'The __________ is ___ times the size of the __________' supports us to describe a comparison or change.

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: Manipulating equations can result in errors. Correction: To find a missing factor, we can use known facts where applicable, or we can divide the product by the known factor. Always encourage children to describe each part of the equation and what it represents.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 Maths guide library.