Using Compatible Numbers to Divide BIG Numbers Fold-Up

Long division is extremely challenging for most students and just when they seem to be getting the hang of it, they are asked to divide bigger and bigger numbers by two or more digit divisors.

I have found that if the students can just get past the first step of determining how many times the divisor goes into part of the dividend, they can usually solve the equation. This past year, I began teaching my students how to use compatible numbers to help them determine a starting point for how many times one number goes into another. I have to say it seems to have helped many. Note, you will have to practice this skill in isolation for a period of time before the kids will really get the hang of it. I typically, give the students a page or two of these type of division problems. I then have them show me the compatible numbers and complete just the first step of each problem. I find this shows me who gets it and who doesn't...plus it helps build a student's confidence!

This product is a tri-fold fold-out. Run the cover up-side down on one side and the inside, right side up on the other side. To fold, lay the paper with inside face up. Bring the bottom of the page up to the upper horizontal line and fold. Next, bring the top down to the bottom fold and fold. When finished it should resemble a brochure.