Exact long division
- Age
- Ages 8–9
Division can share equally or make groups. Sharing 24 counters among 6 people gives 4 each; making groups of 6 gives 4 groups.
For 18 ÷ 3, share eighteen counters among three equal groups: each gets six. You can also ask which number multiplied by 3 gives 18.
In 156 ÷ 3, the first 15 tens divided by 3 give 5 tens in the quotient. Then 6 ones divided by 3 give 2 ones.
For 156 ÷ 12, notice that 12 × 10 = 120, leaving 36. Since 12 × 3 = 36, the quotient is 10 + 3 = 13.
Division can share equally or make groups. Sharing 24 counters among 6 people gives 4 each; making groups of 6 gives 4 groups. Both are written 24 ÷ 6 = 4, although they answer different questions.
Connect division to multiplication: 6 × 4 = 24 checks the answer. A remainder must be smaller than the divisor. In a word problem, explain whether it represents leftover objects or an amount that needs a further decision.
Work through one example aloud before independent practice. To check 18 + 7 = 25, calculate 25 − 7. If a word problem asks about meters or coins, include that unit and check whether the answer fits the situation.