Remainders — Multiply & Divide Pathway

What are remainders?

  • Sometimes numbers do not divide exactly.
  • The amount left over is called the remainder.
  • We write r for remainder: 13 / 4 = 3 r 1.
  • The remainder must always be smaller than the divisor.

Example: 17 / 5

  1. Step 1: How many 5s in 17?
  2. Step 2: 5 x 3 = 15. That fits.
  3. Step 3: 17 - 15 = 2 left over.
  4. Answer: 17 / 5 = 3 r 2.

Your turn

  • Try: 23 / 4.
  • 4 x 5 = 20. That fits (4 x 6 = 24 is too big).
  • 23 - 20 = 3 left over.
  • Answer: 23 / 4 = 5 r 3.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Writing a remainder bigger than the divisor. The remainder must always be smaller.
  • Forgetting to write the "r" symbol. 13 / 4 = 3 r 1, not just 3.

Real-Life Example

You have 17 biscuits to share between 5 friends. 5 x 3 = 15, with 2 left over. So 17 / 5 = 3 r 2. Each friend gets 3 biscuits and 2 are left over.

Extra Support Hints

  • Write the times table for the divisor to find the closest answer.
  • Subtract to find the remainder: 17 - 15 = 2.
Start the interactive Remainders lesson →