Divide and CONQUER!
Learning long division in 3rd grade is a labor of...persistence!
The 3rd-graders have been working on long division in math class, one of the more challenging aspects of mathematics to learn.
To solve a long division problem, there are many steps to remember. First, you must do some estimating before dividing. Next, you must keep the place values straight. Finally, sometimes there is that pesky remainder. It's no wonder the students feel triumphant when they solve these problems correctly!
While the students touched on division last year in 2nd grade, our trio of 3rd-grade teachers are bringing the students to a much higher level. In about two weeks, they have worked their way up to three-digit numbers divided by 2, 3, 4, and 5.
Ms. Debbie Cannington, Ms. Laurie Incles, and Ms. Leigh Anne Milne skillfully lead the students through the process of dividing more complex numbers. It is a challenge, but is facilitated by the students being prepared with their basic math facts.
"The students are required over the summer to practice their math facts including multiplication to 5's," said Ms. Cannington. "At the beginning of third grade, we stress practicing at night to the families so students are fluent."
The students are also doing word problems to apply mathematics to real-life situations. This involves a degree of critical thinking, as each student has to identify the relevant information in the text and apply it to the equation. This promotes a much deeper understanding of the concepts.
The students are also doing word problems to apply mathematics to real-life situations. This involves a degree of critical thinking, as each student has to identify the relevant information in the text and apply it to the equation. This promotes a much deeper understanding of the concepts.
Our teachers are using the math series "Dimensions" — which employs Singapore Math methods to make it more visual for students.
"We use bar models — a picture — to help the students visualize the problems and to assist them in solving equations," said Ms. Cannington.
"We also teach them to use bars and units to visualize word problems," adds Ms. Incles. "This works well with multi-step problems that include multiplication and division."
Ms. Cannington has a shortcut to remember the steps in long division. The steps are divide, multiply, subtract, and bring down. She helps the kids recall these steps by remembering: Dad, Mom, Sister, and Brother.
By building a strong foundation in long division, third graders not only gain essential math skills but also develop problem-solving strategies that will support their success in future learning challenges.
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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