Teaching Long Division Step by Step
Long Division. Two small words for a big and often confusing concept. For many students learning long division can seem daunting, especially if they have yet to master their multiplication facts. Therefore, teaching this skill to students often requires small groups and individualized instruction. The problem is, of course, time. and resources. and extra help in the classroom. Okay – there are a few “problems.” But as scary as this skill can seem to some, there are some easy fixes to a few of these problems. Using tools and resources that meet the specific needs of your students and present information in a clear and concise way can alleviate some of the distress.
Teaching Long Division With a Student Guide Book
I remember a lesson a few years ago where I had to teach long division during an observation.
Observations are already stressful enough, but this was stuck out as extra stressful. I knew from our previous lessons on multi-digit multiplication that many of my students would need extra support.
After introducing the lesson, I pulled out my first long division tool from my toolbox: The All About Long Division Booklet. If ever there was a long division superhero – this would be it.
Students followed along and participated as we read through the included mini-booklet to learn the steps for long division.
Then, we completed a few equations as we referred back to the rules.
When it came time for students to practice these skills in their math centers my lesson went to the next level. As my observer and I looked around the room, every student was able to persevere through the work in their center regardless of their level of mastery with this topic.
Why? How?
The booklet had provided students with a tool they could use when their notes just weren’t cutting it. They could refer to this booklet when they got stuck on a step or needed a reminder about the strategy they were using.
While many of us wish we had an extra aide (or two) to help those struggling students, the reality is – this is not usually something that we can get. However, creating and using these booklets has allowed me (and many others) to help students build their independence with math skills by supporting students when they need it.
I wish you luck with your long-division teaching journey!
Happy teaching!
xo,
Kristin @ The Pixie Dust Classroom