Introduction to Division

Understanding the relationship between 

multiplication and division.

Recently the children were introduced to the concept of division. We reviewed multiplication by describing the process through visual and concrete representation. Understanding the process deeply is critical for future learning. The chidlren discovered that division has a strong relationship to multiplication. 

This visual representation shows how 2 groups of 3 totals 6
is the same as
a total of 6 shared between 2 is 3.
The children analysed how the total number, 6, is used in the multiplication and division problem.
We turned the sharing cards around to show the visual representation of division,
by now starting with the total to be divided equally among the groups..

An important part of learning a new concept is reflecting on our learning.
Here the students are sharing their thinking, with a partner,
about the process of division.

The children used coloured tiles to represent a variety of multiplication and division sentences. 

Being able to show your thinking visually helps to demonstrate important learning. manipulating objects helps build visual images and enhances learning.

The children were introduced to the symbols for multiplication and division as a way of mathematically recording 'groups of" and "shared between'.

12 divided by 4 equals 3
is the same as
4 multiplied by 3 with a total of 12
Knowing multiplication and division facts is important but understanding the concept deeply is critical for future mathematical learning.

Applying learning through problem solving demonstrates the children's understanding of the concept.

Learning to use effective counting strategies continues to be an important part of mathematical learning.

How can we count these groups of 3 tiles?

It is important to allow children to record their thinking in different ways to show the mathematical processes they are applying to different problems. This allows teachers to explicity assess children's understanding and plan accordingly.