Manipulatives, such as base ten blocks, chips, or arrays, can be used to teach the concept of division. These objects can be used to divide objects into equal groups or sets.
The Pros: This strategy is a concrete representation of division, making this concept easy to grasp and form an understanding of. This activity can also be used with large groups of students or even practiced in pairs.
The Cons: Students may become too dependent on problem-solving division problems when using manipulatives. This can make it difficult to transition to completing division problems mentally or on paper.
This is an engaging way to motivate students to work with and ultimately learn division facts. These activities can be created with paper, objects, or even tied into creative arts activities.
The Pros: After practicing several engaging fact activities and games, students will memorize division facts and be mathematically equipped to move forward with new, advanced math concepts and material.
The Cons: Although these hands-on activities can be motivating and engaging for most students, some may get distracted from learning or meeting the instructional outcomes set by the teacher. Often times, students complete these activities in collaboration with their peers.