Division Strategy Chart
When we divide, we are splitting a total into equal groups. Sometimes, there's a leftover amount called a remainder!
Here are some strategies to help you solve division problems, especially when there's a remainder:
1. Repeated Subtraction
This strategy means you keep subtracting the number you are dividing by (the divisor) until you can't subtract anymore without going into negative numbers. The number of times you subtract is your answer, and what's left is your remainder.
Example: 13 ÷ 4
- Start with 13.
- Subtract 4: 13 - 4 = 9 (1st time)
- Subtract 4 again: 9 - 4 = 5 (2nd time)
- Subtract 4 again: 5 - 4 = 1 (3rd time)
Can we subtract 4 from 1? No! So, 1 is our remainder.
You subtracted 4 three times, and you had 1 left over.
Answer: 3 R 1
2. Arrays
An array is a way to arrange objects in rows and columns. For division, you can draw an array to show equal groups.
Example: 11 ÷ 3
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Draw rows with 3 items in each row until you reach the total (11) or get as close as you can.
🔴 🔴 🔴 (1st group of 3)
🔴 🔴 🔴 (2nd group of 3)
🔴 🔴 🔴 (3rd group of 3) -
That's 3 groups of 3, which equals 9. We need to get to 11.
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We have 2 left: 🔴 🔴
We have 3 full groups, and 2 items left over that can't make another full group of 3.
Answer: 3 R 2
3. Fact Families (Multiplication Link)
This strategy uses your knowledge of multiplication facts to help you divide. Think about which multiplication fact gets you closest to your total without going over.
Example: 17 ÷ 5
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Think about the multiplication facts for 5:
- 5 x 1 = 5
- 5 x 2 = 10
- 5 x 3 = 15 (This is the closest without going over 17)
- 5 x 4 = 20 (This is too big!)
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So, we know 5 goes into 17 three times (because 5 x 3 = 15).
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Now, find the remainder: 17 - 15 = 2.
Answer: 3 R 2
Keep practicing these strategies to become a division expert!
