Functional Skills Maths: Division (Level 3)

Interpret remainders, best value and ratio problems

Long Division

  • For larger numbers, use long division step by step.
  • Divide → Multiply → Subtract → Bring down. Repeat.
  • Example: 840 ÷ 24 = 35.

Interpreting Remainders

  • The answer depends on the context.
  • Packing: round UP — you need another box for the leftovers.
  • Sharing money: the remainder is the amount left over.
  • Example: 247 tins, 6 per box → 41 full boxes, 1 tin left.

Rates and Best Value

  • Unit rate = total ÷ quantity. Compare unit rates to find best value.
  • Example: 5 tins for £2.25 = 45p each. 8 tins for £3.44 = 43p each. 8-tin pack is better value.
  • Speed = distance ÷ time. Time = distance ÷ speed.

Worked Examples

Example 1: Tins in boxes

  1. 247 tins, packed 6 per box.
  2. 247 ÷ 6 = 41 remainder 1.
  3. 6 × 41 = 246. 247 − 246 = 1 left over.
  4. Answer: 41 full boxes and 1 tin left over.

Example 2: Journey time

  1. Distance: 495 miles. Speed: 45 mph.
  2. Time = distance ÷ speed.
  3. 495 ÷ 45 = 11.
  4. Answer: 11 hours.

Practice Questions

  • 576 ÷ 12 = ?
    Hint: 12 × 40 = 480. 576 − 480 = 96. 96 ÷ 12 = 8. 40 + 8 = 48.
    Answer: 48
  • 350 chairs in rows of 8. Full rows? Chairs left over?
    Hint: 350 ÷ 8 = 43 remainder 6. 8 × 43 = 344. 350 − 344 = 6 left.
    Answer: 43 full rows, 6 left over
  • 5 tins for £2.25 or 8 tins for £3.44. Which is better value?
    Hint: £2.25 ÷ 5 = 45p each. £3.44 ÷ 8 = 43p each.
    Answer: 8 tins for £3.44 (43p each)
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